Dappling by daphne can be deadly

Content

• Dappling by daphne can be deadly
• That's why the daphne is so dangerous
• Daphne is poisonous on contact
• Also poisonous for many animals
• Immediate measures after contact or taking
• Birds, butterflies and bees love daphne
• Use in natural medicine
• Tips

Daphne is very toxic

Dappling by daphne can be deadly

As beautiful as the daphne blossoms in spring and as decorative as the red fruits are - care should be taken when planting, as the ornamental shrub is highly poisonous. Not only the fruits contain poison, also bark and leaves release already on contact complaints.

Next article Seidelbast prefers no particular location

That's why the daphne is so dangerous

Daphne should never be planted in a location within reach of children or pets. It is highly toxic in almost all parts of plants. Only the pulp itself contains no poison.

The plant contains diterpenes, the bark daphnetoxin. Especially the seeds are highly toxic. They contain the poison Mezerein, which can be fatal depending on the dose. When the seeds are chewed, the poison is released.

Even the consumption of fewer seeds can have serious consequences:

Daphne is poisonous on contact

The poison from leaves and bark gets into the body only through skin contact. Affected bodies begin to itch and redden. Later, the poison triggers blisters and inflammation.

When maintaining the daphne you must wear gloves. Do not leave any cutting residue lying around, but burn it or put it in the trash.

Also poisonous for many animals

Not only for humans is daphne poison toxic. Almost all pets, from the dog to the tortoise, can poison themselves on the plant.

Immediate measures after contact or taking

If the drupes of the daphne were inadvertently eaten, there is an immediate need for action. Call the Poison Control Center or drive to the doctor or hospital immediately.

Birds, butterflies and bees love daphne

In gardens without small children or pets, the daphne is considered a valuable ornamental plant. The early flowering gives the bees first food.

During flowering, the shrub also attracts many butterflies. Ten species of birds feed on the fruits of the daphne.

Use in natural medicine

Daphne is used in homeopathy for various ailments. Of own medication is because of the toxicity of the Seidelbasts but strongly advised against. In conventional medicine Seidelbast no longer plays a role today.

Tips

Real daphne belongs to the protected plants. He may not be taken from the wild.