The rumor persists that the dried leaves and flowers of the hydrangea have an intoxicating effect. Attempting to smoke the parts of the plant is not without risk, since the hydrangea, like some other ornamental plants, contains highly toxic hydrocyanic acid compounds. You can recognize this by the typical bitter almond aroma that you can perceive when you rub a hydrangea leaf between your fingers.
Hydrangeas are only slightly poisonous
Hydrangea toxins
The hydrangea contains various toxins in relatively low concentrations:
hydrocyanic acid glycosides
All parts of the Hydrangea plant contain different concentrations of hydrocyanic acid. This active substance destroys the red blood cells so that no more oxygen can be transported. At high doses, it triggers cramps and suffocation. In the worst case, it can lead to death from heart failure.
hydrangin, hydrangenol and saponins
These toxins are particularly found in the leaves and flower buds of the hydrangea. The active ingredients cause feelings of anxiety and dizziness when taken in large quantities. They also trigger contact allergies in sensitive people.
How dangerous is the plant for children and pets?
The concentration of toxins in all parts of the plant is relatively low, so that hydrangeas planted as ornamental trees are rather harmless. Since the leaves and blossoms taste bitter when chewed, children are also less at risk.
Healing effect
It is interesting that the hydrangea is considered a valuable medicinal plant in its original homeland. There, the root is used as a remedy for bladder and stone disorders as well as for cystitis and prostate problems. A mother tincture containing the active ingredient of hydrangea is also used in homeopathy.
tips and tricks
Despite the relatively low concentration of toxins in the hydrangea, as with all plants, you should make sure that small children playing in the garden do not snack on the hydrangea. If your child or pet has accidentally eaten parts of a plant, we recommend that you visit your family doctor or vet as a precaution.