Is the eu cone poisonous? Information on risks for humans and animals

The eucoat is one of the most common shrubs in our latitudes. The attractive large shrub is very popular as an excellent bee pasture in home gardens. The German name of the plant is derived from the bright pink fruits, which are reminiscent of a bishop's hat, a biretta. The shrub is windproof and very frost hardy. It can withstand great drought, but can also withstand floods.

origin

Around 175 species of the ephemera are known worldwide. All of them have their home in the northern hemisphere. In Europe the European ephemera is growing. It particularly prefers forest edges, bushes and hedges. As a popular ornamental shrub, the ephemera is unfortunately often planted in playgrounds. And: the plant is poisonous. So toxic that they're next to Laburnum, Holly and daphne are counted among the "dangerous four".

Did you know that:

... the scientific generic name of the Pfaffenhütchen, "Euonymus", means something like "of good reputation"?

Even in ancient times, the reputation of the plant was anything but good. Even the ancient Greeks knew about the toxicity of the shrub. The Greek philosopher and natural scientist Theophrastus said that the flowers of the eeligad “smell like murder”. Therefore, according to the “Etymological Dictionary of Botanical Plant Names”, Euonymus is a taboo name. The harmless name was intended to trick the evil demons that were suspected to be behind the poisonous effect.

Toxicity

These parts of the plant are poisonous

All components of the Pfaffenhütchen are considered to be poisonous. This includes stems, leaves and flowers. The greatest concentration of toxins, however, is found in the fruits and seeds. The spores are in the initially quite inconspicuous flowers. These flowers turn into fleshy red capsules in autumn, which open and release the orange seeds. Fruits and seeds then look attractive and are therefore particularly attractive to children and pets.

Toxins

Glycosides

They are generally used by plants to ward off predators. The glycosides in the Pfaffenhütchen are steroid glycosides, they act as cardiac glylosides directly on the heart muscle. Ingested in particularly high concentrations, they paralyze the heart muscle.

Alkaloids

These are considered to be the herbal poison with the strongest effects. Alkaloids act on different centers in the nervous system. In a weaker form, plant extracts containing alkaloid have an intoxicating effect and are therefore among the oldest drugs known to man.

Evonin

This substance belongs to the group of alkaloids and, in larger doses, also has an effect on the central nervous system. Just like theobromine, which is very similar in effect and chemical structure to caffeine.

Toxin absorption

This is how the poison gets into the body

Large amounts of the poisonous substances contained in the monkey cone are dangerous for health and life. Therefore, simply touching the plant is safe for an adult. Even if a child sticks their fingers in their mouth after touching a peacock, that is not yet dangerous. If the plant or even only parts of it are eaten on the other hand, above a certain amount this can lead to moderate to severe symptoms of poisoning.

Note: In particular, note that the glycoids in the seeds are sugar compounds. That means they have a sweet taste of their own. Children notice this quickly when they touch the colorfully attractive fruits and seeds and put their fingers in their mouths. Therefore, make sure that children do not pick the fruits or play with them.

dose

Critical dose

As a rule, adults can tolerate up to three seeds of the plant without feeling signs of poisoning. With a higher dosage, the typical symptoms occur. Between 30 and 40 fruits and seeds are considered a lethal amount in an adult. In children, as little as ten to 15 fruits or seeds lead to serious problems. From 20 pieces the poisoning can be fatal.

Poisonous effect

Symptoms that occur

The effects only become toxic twelve to about 18 hours after consuming the plant. It is increasing rapidly. Even with mild to moderate poisoning, the body temperature rises first, causing shortness of breath and circulatory problems, which quickly lead to palpitations. At the same time, nausea sets in. Abdominal pain, repeated vomiting, constipation and diarrhea alternate. The poison attacks the kidneys and liver in high concentrations; damage to these organs is typical long-term consequences. Paralysis of the heart muscle and especially symptoms of paralysis in the central nervous system are fatal.

First aid

If only a few berries have been eaten, it is sufficient to give them plenty of fluids to reduce the concentration of toxins in the body. Signs of mild poisoning are nausea, dizziness, and vomiting.

First aid in case of poisoning:

• Lay unconscious patients who are still ailing in a stable lateral position
• suspends breathing, start resuscitation

Do not give charcoal supplements without consulting your doctor. If an endoscopic examination is indicated after the poisoning, it may make the examination more difficult. Do not induce vomiting. This is especially dangerous with children.

Dangers of vomiting:

• Inhalation of vomit
• Dehydration of the body, especially small children, due to excessive fluid loss

If symptoms of poisoning are more severe, a doctor must be called urgently or a hospital visited. Severe poisoning manifests itself in breathing disorders and unconsciousness and can quickly become life-threatening. In the case of cardiovascular disorders, immediate life-saving measures such as ventilation and cardiac massage must be initiated in parallel.

Risks to Pets

Risks to cats and dogs

The one in the ephemeris is extremely dangerous for cats and dogs. Both companions of humans feel attracted to the Pfaffenhütchen not only by the color of the fruits and seeds. The slightly sweet taste is also particularly appealing. It is created by the glycoids it contains. Theobromine poses great danger. Theobromine is a purine alkaloid with the effect of highly concentrated caffeine. It has a much stronger effect on the organism and especially on the nervous system of the little four-legged friends than on people, for whom theobromine has a more stimulating effect. Theobromine poisoning can quickly become fatal for cats.

Did you know that chocolate poisoning in cats is also theobromine poisoning? Dark chocolate in particular contains high doses of this substance. Incidentally, even large grazing animals can die after consuming large amounts of eu cone.

Sources:

https://www.nabu.de/

http://www.gizbonn.de/272.0.html