Poisonous as a wild form and houseplant
The name baobab tree is a little ambiguous. In Africa, for example, there is a species whose fruits are edible. The botanical name is Adansonia digitata. In contrast, there is a Malagasy baobab tree (Adansonia madagascariensis) whose bark contains adansonin. This is an antidote to the arrow poison strophantine.
also read
- Baobab tree partially poisonous for cats: short info
- Simply overwinter baobab
- Baobab tree loses its leaves: various causes
In Germany the baobab tree is known as a houseplant. This is classified as potentially toxic. Depending on the size, age and weight of the children, consuming individual parts of them can be dangerous.
First aid measures for children and adults:
- Give plenty of water or tea to drink
- under no circumstances give milk
- Do not induce vomiting (toxic substances can burn the mouth and esophagus again)
Contact poison control center
You will receive free telephone advice there 24 hours a day.
Important questions for suspected poisoning.
- Which plant did the child swallow?
- What parts were eaten? (Leaves, stalk, flowers, fruits)
- Just chewed and spat or swallowed?
- How much was swallowed?
If you are unfamiliar with the plant, try to describe its appearance to the consultant as precisely as possible.
Clues:
- Location
- Appearance
- shape
- size
- Arrangement of the leaves
- colour
- blossoms
- fruit
Go to a hospital
If the poison control center recommends a visit to the hospital, take a complete stem of the plant, including leaves, flowers and possibly fruits, with you if possible.
Tips & Tricks
If you live with toddlers, the Baobab tree move out temporarily. Prevention is often the best medicine.
