Boxwood »How poisonous is it for humans and animals?

Toxins

All parts of the boxwood are highly poisonous: From the roots to leaves, flowers, fruits and wood, the plant contains over 70 different alkaloids. The highest concentrations of poison are found in the leaves and in the bark, where the alkaloid content is up to three percent. Also the blossoms and fruits are considered highly poisonous. The main active ingredient is cyclobuxin (buxin).

Symptoms

Poisoning is only possible in very sensitive people by simply touching them, for example by this comes into contact with plant sap when pruning and then with skin irritation reacted. That is why experts always recommend doing such activities Gardening gloves to carry and clean tools thoroughly. If parts of the boxwood are consumed, however, depending on the amount of plant parts, severe symptoms of poisoning can occur, which in certain circumstances can even be fatal. However, Buchs has a very bitter taste, which is why it is unlikely that large quantities will be consumed.

person

Boxwood poisoning in humans manifests itself through the following symptoms, among others:

• Nausea and vomiting
• cramps
• diarrhea
• uncontrolled tremors
• Signs of paralysis
• Drop in blood pressure (circulatory collapse possible)

Sensible first aid measures: give medical charcoal to bind the poison in the body and drink plenty of water. Do not give the affected person any milk to drink and do not make them vomit! Plant residues still in the mouth should be spit out immediately.

animal

The same symptoms and first aid measures apply to animals as to humans. However, the deadly doses are lower here: 150 grams are lethal for dogs weighing up to 30 kilograms, and only 20 grams for a cat. Small animals such as rabbits, guinea pigs and the like almost always suffer fatal poisoning.