Hyacinths are among the ornamental plants that are not entirely harmless to humans. Swallowing large amounts of flowers or leaves can cause real problems, especially for children. Make sure that small children cannot get their hands on the plant.

You should keep children away from hyacinths if possible

Toxic components of hyacinth

toxin plant parts symptoms easy symptoms severe
salicylic acid leaves and flower stalks nausea - vomiting Kidney damage paralysis
calcium oxalate onions nausea - vomiting Kidney damage - signs of paralysis
saponins onion seeds skin irritation Inflammation - eczema

First aid after poisoning by hyacinth

If you have only ingested small amounts of the plant, you will hardly experience any discomfort. The poisonous effects of the plant become apparent only when consumed in large quantities.

If you accidentally swallow hyacinth flowers or leaves, drink plenty of plain, cold, non-carbonated water to dilute the poison concentration.

If larger amounts of hyacinth have been ingested or if the victim is a small child, call your family doctor or the poison control center in your area to be on the safe side.

Skin damage caused by "hyacinth scabies"

Like all salts, calcium oxalate has sharp edges. On contact with the skin, the salt can tear and damage the skin. Some people are also allergic to the saponins. Inflammation and eczema can be the result.

Therefore, always wear gloves when caring for the hyacinth or planting the tubers.

tips and tricks

While accidental swallowing of parts of the hyacinth hardly leads to severe symptoms of poisoning in humans, the situation is different in animals. Cats are particularly at risk. Make sure that the four-legged friends do not come into contact with tubers, flowers or leaves.

Category:

Vegetable garden