Everywhere in parks and gardens we are enchanted by magnificently blooming rhododendrons. Beautiful but toxic to humans and especially animals. Which poisons rhododendrons contain and the effect on humans and animals…

The original home of the rhododendrons is China, Tibet and the Asian jungle. Already in the English gardens of the 18th century, people valued it as a windbreak, decoration, medicinal and poisonous plant. Around 20 species are native to North America. In our part of the world there are around 900 rhododendron varieties and just as many hybrids available for purchase in specialist shops.

Toxic substances, effects and symptoms:

Of the numerous rhododendron species, many contain toxins. The substances that are dangerous for humans and animals are found in leaves, flowers, fruits, nectar and pollen. Honey from areas where rhododendrons are widespread, such as the Turkish Black Sea coast, can also contain poison.

Rhododendrons contain the following toxic substances:

  • diterpenes
  • Grayanotoxins
  • acetylandromedol
  • andromedotoxin

Rhododendron toxic: possible symptoms in humans

Be careful when playing with children in the garden or park that the little ones do not run too close to rhododendrons or remove flowers and play with leaves or swallow them. Also, be careful when consuming honey made from rhododendron nectar.

The following symptoms indicate rhododendron poisoning: increased salivation, irritation of the mucous membranes, tingling of the skin and sensory disturbances on the extremities. In addition, general symptoms such as sweating, dizziness, nausea, nausea or diarrhea. In the case of severe poisoning, convulsions, cardiac arrhythmias, paralysis and even fatal respiratory paralysis occur.

Rhododendron poisonous to animals

Normally, animals' natural instincts tell them which plants they can and cannot eat. However, the more our pets become alienated from their natural environment, the greater the risk that they will make mistakes. Therefore, every animal lover should find out about dangerous poisonous plants in the area.

Animals are particularly sensitive to the rhododendron poison. Horses, pets and tortoises in particular can die a few hours after eating rhododendron leaves. In the case of tortoises, a flower or a few leaves is enough as a lethal dose.

The symptoms are much more pronounced in animals than in humans. Increased salivation, cramps and inflammation in the gastrointestinal area are typical poisoning reactions. In the worst case, fatal respiratory paralysis occurs.

Dogs are also at risk if they sniff or lie under a rhododendron in the poisonous soil. Even in winter, the danger of poisoning lurks in the evergreen plants.

First Aid For Rhododendron Poisoning:
Drink plenty of fluids if you are nauseous. In the event of severe symptoms, consult a doctor immediately for the administration of charcoal or detoxification measures or call the poison emergency number (030 / 192 40).

Healing effect and medical application:
Asian species are used as cardiotonic and antihypertensive drugs. The Rhododendron chryseum from Siberia is homeopathically recommended for gout and rheumatism.

tips and tricks

Avoid poisonous plants near playgrounds or barbecue areas as early as the planning stage. As a garden lover, you should know exactly what is green, blooming, fragrant and possibly poisonous in your area. If you want to be on the safe side, plant herb and vegetable beds separately from ornamental shrubs.

Category:

Vegetable garden