With a slender stalk and a teardrop-shaped and humbly downward-sloping flower, the snowdrop shoots out of the ground in spring. But its delicate side should not hide its poisonous potential. This represents one of the peculiarities of this native plant…

A poison cocktail that permeates the entire plant

All parts of the plant contain toxins, with the onion standing out with the alkaloid Amaryllidaceae. The onion is the most poisonous because of this. The leaves, stems and flowers contain the toxic substances tazettin, galanthamine and lycorine.

No great danger to humans

Snowdrops are considered to be of low toxicity and it is relatively unlikely that people will be poisoned by snowdrops. This plant is unlike any other plant that is considered edible. The exception is small children. Explain to your children that they are not allowed to eat the snowdrop!

Snowdrops poisonous to dogs

In addition to small children, (young) pets such as dogs are particularly at risk. If a dog has nibbled on snowdrops or eaten too much of them, the following symptoms can occur, among others:

  • diarrhea
  • Vomit
  • drowsiness
  • increased salivation
  • constricted pupils
  • in the worst case: signs of paralysis

Humans react similarly to snowdrop poisoning. Experts believe that eating up to three onions will not make a difference in an adult. If pets have poisoned themselves, a veterinarian should be consulted immediately.

Drinking plenty of water and taking activated charcoal can help as countermeasures. A lethal dose is not known. Prevention is better than countermeasures: Do not plant snowdrops if you have children and/or are a pet owner.

tips and tricks

Did you know? Snowdrops are used in medicine. The ingredients are said to help in small amounts with Alzheimer's, menstrual cramps and heart disease.

Category:

Herbs