All fern species are poisonous
All Fern species are considered poisonous - some more, some less. Hence, you should be wary of consuming any species of fern. Even breathing in the spores on the underside of the leaves can have negative consequences.
also read
- Is the fern poisonous to cats?
- The fern has brown leaves: what's wrong?
- Is the fern hardy or does it need frost protection?
Bracken - the most poisonous fern in Germany
Of the bracken, which is often found in Germany, is the most poisonous representative of the ferns in this country. It is believed that its spores, which contain the enzyme thiaminase, are carcinogenic and damage the bone marrow. In addition to the spores, its leaves are toxic. They contain hydrogen cyanide glycosides and a poisonous saponin. The young leaves in particular are dangerous!
The worm fern: Better to refrain from worming
Although the Worm fern used as a remedy for worms in the past, it should not be consumed. It was not uncommon for deaths to occur due to the consumption
this fern. With him, the rhizome and the stems of young plants are particularly poisonous. Even 100 g are deadly for a cattle.Symptoms of Fern Poisoning
Both animals like Cats and dogs as well as humans react to fern and show, for example, the following symptoms in the event of poisoning:
- Vomit
- diarrhea
- stomach pain
- Fainting
- Heart failure
- Visual disturbances
- motor disorders
- Disorders in the sequence of movements
- Breathing problems
Tips & Tricks
When applied externally, fern is non-toxic and can be used, for example, for headaches, rheumatism, leg cramps and gout.