Delphinium belladonna and Delphinium elatum are both field and garden delphiniums, which are highly toxic. The seeds contained in the follicles are particularly dangerous. In principle, however, all parts of the delphinium are considered poisonous.

Poisonous plant of the year 2015

Since 2004, the special botanical garden in Hamburg-Wandsbek has been choosing the "poisonous plant of the year" every year in order, according to the purpose of the campaign, to draw attention to the danger of poisonous plants in domestic gardens. In 2015, the ranunculus larkspur received the title because its toxins, which are very similar to monkshood, pose a particular threat to children and animals.

Larkspur endangers children and animals in particular

In particular, the garden or field delphinium (Consolida ajacis) and the high larkspur (Delphinium elatum) contain high levels of toxic alkaloids, especially diterpenoids (especially methyllycaconitine). These are mostly contained in the seeds, but also in all other parts of the plant. Mere skin contact usually has no effect, only very sensitive people can develop skin rashes. Children and animals should be kept away from delphiniums and must never eat or swallow parts of the plant - especially the fruit with the seeds.

Used as a medicine in ancient times

Above all, the field and field larkspurs, which used to be very common in the past, were used as medicinal plants (e.g. against stomach cramps) in the Middle Ages and in the early modern period. Delphinium staphysagria, the "sharp delphinium", is still used in homeopathy today. However, an actual healing power of the plant has not yet been proven, but its toxicity is all the better documented.

effects of poisoning

Depending on the severity, delphinium poisoning is manifested by numbness in the tongue and limbs, tingling in the hands and feet and skin rashes through to stomach cramps with vomiting and diarrhea. Movement disorders and nervousness are also typical. The toxins can attack the muscles, especially the heart muscles, causing a slow heart rate and respiratory rate.

tips and tricks

If possible, wear gloves when cutting delphiniums to protect yourself from the poisonous plant sap.

Category:

Vegetable garden