Content
- Hyacinths are among the most poisonous ornamental plants
- Toxic ingredients of the hyacinth
- First aid after poisoning by hyacinth
- Skin damage caused by "hyacinth scabies"
- Tips & Tricks
They should keep children away from hyacinths if possible
Hyacinths are among the most poisonous ornamental plants
Hyacinths are among the ornamental plants that are not entirely safe for humans. Ingestion of larger amounts of flowers or leaves can cause real problems, especially in children. Make sure little children do not get their hands on the plant.
Toxic ingredients of the hyacinth
First aid after poisoning by hyacinth
If you have absorbed only small amounts of the plant, you will hardly feel any discomfort. Consumed only in large quantities, the poisonous effects of the plant show up.
If you accidentally swallow the hyacinth flowers or leaves, drink plenty of clear, cold, non-carbonated water to dilute the concentration of toxins.
If larger amounts of hyacinth have been ingested, or if the victim is a smaller child, call your GP or the Poison Control Center near you for safety's sake.
Skin damage caused by "hyacinth scabies"
Calcium oxalate, like all salts, is sharp-edged. On contact with the skin, the salt can rupture and damage the skin. Some people are also allergic to saponins. Inflammation and eczema can be the result.
Always wear gloves when cultivating the hyacinth or planting the tubers.
Tips & Tricks
While accidental ingestion of parts of the hyacinth in humans hardly leads to severe symptoms of intoxication, it looks different in animals. Especially cats are endangered. Make sure that the four-legged friends do not come in contact with tubers, flowers or leaves.