The original home of the rhododendrons is China, Tibet and the Asian jungle. Even in the English gardens of the 18th In the 19th century, people valued it as a windbreak, decoration, medicinal and poisonous plant. Around 20 species are at home in North America. In our part of the world there are around 900 rhododendron varieties and as many hybrids to buy in specialist shops.
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Toxic substances, effects and symptoms:
Many of the numerous rhododendron species contain toxins. The substances that are dangerous for humans and animals can be found in leaves, flowers, fruits, nectar and pollen. Honey from areas where rhododendrons are widespread, such as the Turkish Black Sea coast, can also contain poison.
Rhododendrons contain the following toxic substances:
- Diterpenes
- Grayanotoxins
- Acetylandromedol
- Andromedotoxin
Rhododendron toxic: possible symptoms in humans
When playing with children in the garden or park, be careful that the little ones don't frolic too close to rhododendrons or remove flowers and play with leaves or swallow them. Be careful when consuming honey made from rhododendron nectar.
The following symptoms indicate rhododendron poisoning: increased salivation, irritation of the mucous membranes, tingling of the skin and sensory disorders in the extremities. In addition, general complaints such as sweating, dizziness, nausea, nausea or diarrhea. In the case of severe poisoning, convulsions, cardiac arrhythmias, paralysis and even fatal respiratory paralysis occur.
Rhododendron poisonous in animals
Normally, animals' natural instincts tell them which plants to eat and which not to eat. But the more our pets become alienated from their natural environment, the more the risk of them being wrong. Therefore, every animal lover should inform themselves about dangerous poisonous plants in the area.
Animals are particularly sensitive to rhododendron poison. Horses, pets, and tortoises in particular can die a few hours after consuming rhododendron leaves. For tortoises, a single flower or a few leaves are enough as a lethal dose.
The symptoms are much more pronounced in animals than in humans. Increased salivation, cramps and inflammation in the gastrointestinal area are typical poisoning reactions. In the worst case, fatal respiratory paralysis occurs.
Dogs are also at risk when under a rhododendron in the poisonous earth sniff or lie down. Even in winter, the danger of poisoning lurks with the evergreen plants.
First aid for rhododendron poisoning:
If you feel sick, drink plenty of fluids. In the event of severe symptoms, consult a doctor immediately to administer charcoal or Call detoxification measures or poison control (030/192 40).
Medicinal effect and medical application:
Asian types are used as heart tonic and antihypertensive drugs. Rhododendron chryseum, which comes from Siberia, is recommended homeopathically for gout and rheumatism.
Tips & Tricks
Avoid poisonous plants near play areas or barbecue areas when planning. As a gardener, you should know exactly what is green, blooming, smelling and possibly poisonous in your home. If you want to be on the safe side, keep herb and vegetable patches separate from ornamental shrubs.
