Barberry species owe their nickname organic barbed wire to their fearsome thorns. The most defensive varieties even have sharp spikes along the edges of the leaves. So the question is whether the thorns are poisonous. This guide not only has a well-founded answer ready. Practical tips tell you how to act correctly if you have a thorn in your finger.

The thorns contain small amounts of toxic substances

Barberries are poisonous in all parts - with one exception

Poisonous plants are not to be trifled with. We therefore asked experts about the poison content of barberry thorns. The information center against poisoning at the University of Bonn states:

  • Barberries are toxic in all parts due to alkaloids
  • Main components with health hazards: Isoquinoline alkaloids with berberine as the main alkaloid
  • Highest concentration in roots and stem bark
  • Lower concentration in leaves, flowers and thorns
  • Harmless parts of the plant: berries and seeds contained therein

From these findings it follows that the berries of barberries are suitable for consumption. The fruits contain valuable vitamins and fiber. In autumn you can harvest the dark red berries and use them for a variety of preparations.

Remove barberry thorn from your finger - this is how it works

If home gardeners devote themselves to the care work without the appropriate protective clothing, a thorn gets stuck in their fingers. This is no reason to panic, but should not be taken lightly. How to get rid of the thorn:

  • Gently clean affected skin with warm, soapy water
  • Important: Do not press or squeeze the entry point
  • Examine with a magnifying glass how deep the thorn is in the flesh
  • Ideally pull out with tweezers
  • Alternatively apply adhesive tape, press lightly and pull off with the mandrel
  • Apply pulling ointment to the deeper seated thorn overnight and remove the next day

If you only discover the thorn when the skin is already swollen, please contact your family doctor immediately. Swelling indicates an inflammation, which can result in blood poisoning if not treated correctly.

tips

Do you know the difference between prickles and thorns? Spines sit superficially on a plant's epidermis, making them easy to break off and get stuck in your finger. Thorns, on the other hand, are firmly attached to the shoot because they are former leaves. Since barberry thorns do not break off easily, they can cause serious skin injuries, so wearing protective clothing is strongly recommended when cutting.

Category:

Vegetable garden