Rhododendron: poisonous or not?

Are rhododendrons poisonous to humans? And what about the danger for pets like cats and dogs? We clarify.

Rhododendrons (rhododendron) are popular evergreen shrubs found in many gardens and parks. But just because the rhododendron can be found everywhere does not mean that it is harmless. Humans and pets should also stay away from certain ingredients that the plant uses as a natural protection against eating.

Is rhododendron poisonous?

The flowers, leaves and fruits, but also the other parts of the plant contain toxic diterpenes in smaller amounts. Even contact with the plant can cause skin irritation. Therefore, you should always wear gloves when caring for and planting a rhododendron. Even eating a leaf or a flower can lead to the following symptoms of poisoning:

• nausea
• diarrhea
• stomach pain
• nausea
• Hypersensitivity of mucous membranes and extremities
• Increased salivation

These arise from the fact that certain channels are blocked at the cell level, which reduces the stimulus reproduction between the Cells of the gastrointestinal tract, the heart, the skeletal muscles or the nervous system no longer functions. In an emergency, this can lead to respiratory disorders, seizures, severe cardiac arrhythmias, signs of paralysis or even death. A doctor should be consulted at the latest when the symptoms become more severe. If the symptoms are mild, it is sufficient to drink plenty of fluids. Compared to other ornamental plants, the rhododendron is not considered to be particularly poisonous. Planting is therefore only discouraged if there are small children in the household.

The nectar also contains certain diterpenes - the gayanotoxins. As a result, the honey in some regions, such as the Turkish Black Sea coast, contains small amounts of the toxin. This pontic honey or mad honey can cause symptoms of poisoning such as nausea, vomiting and hallucinations.

Rhododendrons poisonous for cats, dogs & Co.?

There are also many dangers lurking in the garden for your four-legged friend. The toxins are also toxic to pets such as dogs and cats, horses, cattle and tortoises. The same symptoms occur as in humans, only that they occur more intensively and from a smaller amount. If you recognize one of these symptoms of poisoning, it is therefore advisable to consult a veterinarian.