This is why thuja is so poisonous
Thuja contains large amounts of essential oils in all parts of the plant:
- Thujones
- Camphor
- Tannins
- Terpineole
- Flavonoids
However, a life-threatening situation only arises when parts of the tree of life are consumed. The consequences of poisoning by thuja are:
- Nausea, nausea
- Bowel problems
- Skin and mucous membrane irritation
- cramps
- Paralysis
- Kidney and liver damage
If you suspect that a child or animal has eaten parts of a thuja, you should contact the poison control center immediately and contact a doctor.
People at particular risk
Children who put parts of the plant into their mouths out of curiosity are of course particularly at risk. But pregnant women should also stay away. Thuja can cause a miscarriage.
In gardens with children and / or pets, you should completely avoid a thuja hedge for safety's sake.
Protect hands and face when handling thuja
At the Maintain and especially when cutting the thuja hedge, sap leaks out, which can cause severe skin reactions on the bare skin.
Therefore, when working on the thuja hedge, you should always wear gloves, long-sleeved clothing and wear a face mask.
Tips
Even if thuja is highly poisonous, you can leave plant remains on the compost bring. Wear respiratory protection when chopping them, as some people are allergic to even the smallest of particles.
