Ivy is a poisonous plant. The climbing plant contains substances that are toxic not only when eaten, but also when they come into contact with the skin. The plant is considered to be a particularly poisonous ivy in its mature form, in which it forms flowers and fruits. The fruits in particular contain a large number of toxins and should never be eaten.

Ivy can trigger an allergic reaction just by touching it

Ivy is one of the poisonous plants in the garden

Ivy contains the toxic substances hederin and saponins in all parts of the plant, but especially in the berries. In the case of consumption or contact, there is a real risk of poisoning, especially for children and animals.

If you have children or pets, it is therefore better not to plant ivy in the garden. It is also better not to care for the climbing plant indoors.

Symptoms of poisoning when eating the berries

For adults, the berries of the ivy do not pose such a great danger, because the fruits taste very unpleasant. Nevertheless, of course, adults should not eat ivy in any form. Even two or three berries can lead to serious poisoning.

When poisoning by the fruits of ivy, different symptoms appear. Above all, stomach and intestinal problems, burning in the throat, states of excitement and a rapid pulse are noticeable. Severe poisoning can cause shock and respiratory arrest. In the worst case, eating ivy berries can lead to death.

Even contact with ivy can be dangerous

The leaves of the ivy are not quite as poisonous as the berries. Nevertheless, they also contain toxins that can lead to inflammation and pustules on the skin of sensitive people. You should always wear gloves when planting or cutting ivy.

When cutting the ivy tendrils, the smallest particles are produced, which you should better not inhale. People with allergies are particularly at risk here, but even healthy people should not inhale too many of these substances. If you need to cut or remove large amounts of ivy from the garden, wear a breathing mask to be on the safe side.

Clear away all the cuttings right away and don't leave them lying around. Then animals staying in the garden cannot poison it.

Ivy poisonous to children

Ivy is particularly dangerous for children. If children eat a few leaves, it will not be life-threatening, but they can cause severe discomfort afterwards.

However, the berries are so toxic that children can get seriously poisoned by them. Even the consumption of two to three berries can lead to states of shock with an uncertain outcome.

If you suspect that your child has eaten ivy leaves or ivy fruit, you should seek medical advice immediately. Symptoms of ivy poisoning include:

  • a headache
  • diarrhea
  • Vomit
  • fast pulse
  • shock
  • Apnea

What to do if you are poisoned with ivy

If you suspect or are sure to be poisoned by ivy, do not hesitate. See a doctor or hospital immediately who can perform detoxification. The poison control centers also offer first aid. You can find their telephone numbers on the Internet.

Pets are also at risk

Pets can also get poisoned by ivy. Whether dogs, cats, guinea pigs, hamsters or birds, even horses can die from poisoning with ivy. Interestingly, donkeys don't seem to have any problems with the components of ivy.

The symptoms are similar to those in humans. The animals suffer from excitement, spasms, stomach and intestinal problems and even shock.

In the event of poisoning, immediately contact a veterinarian who will treat the dog, cat or rodent.

Poisonous ivy also as a houseplant

Whether you grow ivy in the garden or as a houseplant does not matter much in terms of toxicity. Although the plants kept indoors do not develop berries, the leaves and shoots also contain toxins.

If you want to keep ivy in the house or on the balcony and terrace, make sure that neither children nor animals can get close. Collect fallen leaves immediately to avoid the risk of poisoning.

Poisonous ivy in America

Even if the native ivy species are already very poisonous - the varieties represented in this country cannot keep up with the American ivy, also known as poisonous sumac. Poison oak has much higher concentrations of poison, so consumption is often fatal. Skin contact causes severe inflammation reminiscent of burns.

tips

Ivy has played a role in homeopathy and natural medicine since ancient times. Tea made from the leaves is used for diseases such as bronchitis. Also, ivy is used in the manufacture of shampoo and other personal care products.

Category:

Indoor plants