Daffodils shine beautifully in the garden in early spring. But many wonder if the daffodil is poisonous. But is that true?
daffodils (Narcissus) belong, as well as our onions (Allium cepa), to the plants that form bulbs as storage organs. They have thickened bracts as a reserve for the winter. The daffodil bulb and the onion also look very similar. It can sometimes happen that the wrong onion rings end up on the Mett roll. But does that make a difference or is this mix-up even dangerous?
Is the daffodil poisonous?
The answer is yes, daffodils are poisonous due to chemical compounds found only in the amaryllis (Amaryllidaceae) occur – the so-called amaryllidaceae alkaloids. Daffodils belong to the amaryllis family. The entire plant, but mainly the bulb, contains these chemical compounds. They serve the natural protection of the plant against parasite infestation and grazing herbivores. They have a cytotoxic effect, i.e. kill cells.
The sap of the narcissus can cause skin irritation. However, these usually disappear on their own. You should definitely consult a doctor when consuming the onion. Nevertheless, some Amaryllidaceae alkaloids are used in medicine, for example as an active ingredient in dementia medication, to inhibit tumor cells or to inhibit the proliferation of viruses.
Poisonous Narcissus: Symptoms of Poisoning
Typical symptoms of poisoning occur after eating daffodil bulbs. Smaller amounts may cause retching, vomiting, diarrhea, drowsiness, sweating and drowsiness. After the consumption of larger amounts, collapse and paralysis follow, up to and including death. Because of this danger, you should rather make the effort and always label storage containers well.
notice: If you have pets, you should store your flower bulbs out of the reach of them. As little as 15 grams of daffodil bulbs can kill a dog.
