Poisonous ivy: dangerous for humans and animals?

The rumor of poisonous ivy persists. We investigate and clarify whether ivy is poisonous for children, cats, dogs and the like.

ivy (Hedera helix) is poisonous, every child knows that, right? The beautiful plant in deep dark green is actually not entirely harmless. Especially the black-blue berries in autumn and winter are extremely tempting. But what happens when a careless child or puppy cannot resist the temptation?

Poisonous ivy?

Ivy is often classified as more dangerous than it actually is. Officially, it is considered toxic to slightly toxic, because all parts of the plant contain harmful substances. These substances protect the plant from predators. The advantage is that these substances are not only toxic, but also extremely bitter. People or animals who are tempted to taste the plant will quickly realize that it does not taste good at all. Basically, humans and animals protect themselves.

Is ivy toxic to humans?

All parts of the ivy are poisonous to humans. This is mainly due to the two ingredients α-hederin and falcarinol. The first substance is also used in medicine in small amounts. Perhaps you remember the ivy leaf on the packaging of the sweet cough syrup you were given when you were a child? α-Hedrin is often used to treat colds and bronchitis. Falcarinol, on the other hand, belongs to the alcohols and has a fungicidal effect. It protects the roots of ivy from fungal diseases. However, this substance is also toxic to humans. When pruning the plant, some react sensitively. Contrary to what is sometimes claimed, a light touch of the ivy does not immediately cause a rash. Rather, this rumor is based on a mix-up. The very toxic poison oak (Toxicodendron pubescens) from North America bears the middle name poison ivy, although it is not related to ivy.

The part of the ivy that is probably most predestined for consumption are the blue-black berries. Those who do not let the bitterness deter them can suffer serious consequences. Symptoms of poisoning can already occur from an consumed quantity of two berries. Possible symptoms are:

• headache
• High temperature
• burning in the throat area
• Diarrhea and vomiting
• Accelerated pulse
• cramps

In acute cases, even shock states and respiratory arrest can be the result. However, it is extremely unlikely that this will happen. Ivy is inedible and very bitter. Hardly anyone will consume larger amounts. So far, only very few cases are known in Germany in which moderately severe symptoms have occurred. Although ivy is poisonous, there is no need to banish it from the garden right away. It is unlikely that children will consume large amounts of it. It is best if you show your child the plant and explain that it is poisonous and that eating it has very unpleasant consequences. Children should not be kept away from all poisonous plants, but rather learn how to deal with them as early as possible. If you don't get to know the plant in your own garden and take care of it, then this may happen unnoticed somewhere along the way.

Is ivy poisonous to cats, dogs and co?

Ivy is also generally poisonous for pets. This applies to cats and dogs as well as rodents and horses. But the animals do not like ivy at all. They often notice immediately that the plant doesn't suit them because it tastes very bitter. If large amounts were consumed, the symptoms are similar to those in humans: diarrhea and vomiting, an increase in heart rate and cramps to the point of respiratory arrest can be the result. However, ivy is not harmful to all animals. blackbird, thrush and star can eat the ivy berries undisturbed. They even serve as a valuable source of food over the winter, when it is often difficult to find anything else. So ivy is by no means a pure poisonous plant, but at the same time a productive fodder plant.

Treat ivy poisoning

If parts of the ivy were eaten, quick action is required. The following steps are important for ivy poisoning.

How to deal with ivy poisoning:

• Remove plant parts from the mouth
• Rinse your mouth with still water
• Call the Poison Control Center and get medical attention immediately

A directory of Poison control centers in Germany, Austria and Switzerland you'll find here.

If you still want to get rid of your ivy, we have put together the most important information here for you on how to get rid of it Remove ivy properly.