Poison Garden Plants

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The only plants which could cause significant problems from simply touching intact leaves are stinging nettle and tobacco. All of the other plants require eating part of the plant or tearing the plant to expose sap. No food or drink is allowed in the Poison Garden. Do not eat plants in the Poison Garden.

Aconitum napellus - Monkshood "Queen of Poisons"

Aconitum toxicity is typically only seen with the misuse of traditional Chinese herbal medicine.

Aconitum napellus, commonly known as Monkshood or Wolf's Bane, is a highly toxic plant found within the Poison Garden.

Native to Europe and Asia, Aconitum napellus contains a number of poisonous alkaloids, including aconitine, which can cause cardiac arrest and death if ingested in sufficient quantities.

All parts of the plant, particularly the roots and seeds, are toxic and should not be handled or consumed. Even small amounts of the plant can cause tingling, numbness, and paralysis of the respiratory and cardiovascular systems.

Despite its toxicity, Aconitum napellus has a long history of medicinal use in traditional Chinese and Ayurvedic medicine, where it has been used to treat a variety of ailments, including pain and fever.

In addition to its medicinal uses, Aconitum napellus has also been used as a poison throughout history, particularly in ancient Rome, where it was used to execute criminals.

Visitors to the Poison Garden are reminded to exercise caution and to not touch or ingest any part of Aconitum napellus. If you suspect that you or someone else has come into contact with the plant, seek medical attention immediately.

Atropa belladonna

Atropa belladonna, commonly known as deadly nightshade, is a highly toxic plant that is native to Europe, North Africa, and Western Asia. The plant contains several toxic compounds, including atropine, scopolamine, and hyoscyamine, which can cause a range of severe health effects if ingested in large amounts.

Symptoms of deadly nightshade poisoning can include dilated pupils, dry mouth, blurred vision, confusion, hallucinations, seizures, and coma. In severe cases, ingestion of the plant can be fatal.

Despite its toxicity, deadly nightshade has been used for centuries for its medicinal properties, particularly as a pain reliever, sedative, and anti-inflammatory. However, the plant's high toxicity levels and potential for overdose make it a dangerous substance to use for self-medication.

In addition to its medicinal uses, deadly nightshade has also been used in traditional folklore and mythology for its association with witchcraft and magic.

Overall, visitors to the Poison Garden should exercise extreme caution when handling or consuming deadly nightshade, and should avoid any contact with the plant if possible. Any suspected cases of deadly nightshade poisoning should be treated as a medical emergency, and immediate medical attention should be sought.

Calendula

Calendula, also known as marigold, is a genus of plants that are native to Europe and parts of Asia, but are now widely cultivated around the world for their ornamental and medicinal uses. Calendula has been used in traditional medicine for centuries for its anti-inflammatory and wound-healing properties.

The active compounds in calendula include triterpenoids, flavonoids, and carotenoids, which are believed to be responsible for its medicinal properties. Calendula has been used topically to treat a variety of skin conditions, including cuts, burns, and bruises. It is also used as an ingredient in various cosmetic and personal care products, such as soaps and creams.

While calendula is generally considered safe for external use, it should not be ingested in large amounts, as it may cause nausea, vomiting, and dizziness. Pregnant and breastfeeding women should also avoid using calendula products, as their safety has not been established.

Overall, calendula is a versatile plant that has been used for centuries for its medicinal and cosmetic properties. Visitors to the Poison Garden are reminded to exercise caution when handling and using calendula, and to seek medical attention if they experience any adverse reactions or symptoms of toxicity.

Castor Bean

Castor bean (Ricinus communis) is a highly poisonous but beautiful ornamental plant that can be found in the Poison Garden. While castor bean is grown commercially for the production of castor oil, the seeds and other parts of the plant contain a potent toxin called ricin, which can cause serious harm if ingested or even inhaled.

Ricin is a protein that can cause cell death by disrupting protein synthesis, leading to organ failure and ultimately death. Symptoms of ricin poisoning can include nausea, vomiting, profound abdominal pain, diarrhea, seizures, and even death in severe cases. Purified ricin is a potent biological warfare weapon. The ingestion of a few berries is enough to cause symptoms of poisoning, but all parts of the plant are toxic.

It is important to note that even small amounts of ricin can be lethal, and there is no known antidote for ricin poisoning. As such, visitors to the Poison Garden are advised to avoid handling or consuming any part of the castor bean plant.

In addition to its use in the production of castor oil, castor beans have also been used in traditional medicine and as a recreational drug due to their psychoactive effects. However, due to the plant's toxicity and potential for harm, these uses are not recommended and are strictly regulated in most countries.

Overall, visitors to the Poison Garden are reminded to exercise extreme caution when handling or consuming any part of the castor bean plant, and to seek immediate medical attention if they suspect that they or someone else has come into contact with the plant.

Datura

Datura metel, also known as double-flowered datura or angel's trumpet, is a highly toxic plant that is native to South Asia and is also found in many other parts of the world. The plant contains several toxic compounds, including atropine, scopolamine, and hyoscyamine, which can cause a range of severe health effects if ingested in large amounts.

Symptoms of datura metel poisoning can include dilated pupils, dry mouth, blurred vision, confusion, hallucinations, seizures, and coma. In severe cases, ingestion of the plant can be fatal.

Despite its high toxicity levels, datura metel has been used in traditional medicine for its medicinal properties, particularly as a pain reliever, sedative, and anti-inflammatory. However, the plant's high toxicity levels and potential for overdose make it a dangerous substance to use for self-medication.

In addition to its medicinal uses, datura metel has also been used in traditional folklore and mythology for its association with witchcraft and magic.

Overall, visitors to the Poison Garden should exercise extreme caution when handling or consuming datura metel, and should avoid any contact with the plant if possible. Any suspected cases of datura metel poisoning should be treated as a medical emergency, and immediate medical attention should be sought.

Daylily

Daylilies (Hemerocallis spp.) are a popular ornamental plant that is commonly grown in gardens for their colorful and showy flowers. While daylilies are generally considered safe for HUMANS, there are some concerns about the toxicity of the plant. Cats eating daylilies experience gastrointestinal distress and kidney failure. Early decontamination and aggressive fluid therapy are required for successful treatment.

The flowers, leaves, and roots of some daylily species contain toxic compounds called glycosides, which can cause gastrointestinal distress to humans if ingested in large amounts. Symptoms of daylily toxicity can include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain.

It is important to note that not all daylilies are toxic, and that toxicity levels can vary depending on the species and growing conditions. As such, visitors to the Poison Garden are reminded to exercise caution when handling or consuming any part of the daylily plant, and to seek immediate medical attention if they experience any symptoms of toxicity.

In addition to their ornamental uses, daylilies have also been used in traditional medicine for their diuretic and laxative effects. However, these uses are not recommended and are not backed by scientific evidence.

Overall, while daylilies are generally considered safe when handled and consumed in moderation, visitors to the Poison Garden should exercise caution and should avoid handling or consuming any part of the plant if they are unsure of its toxicity level.

Delphinium

Delphinium (Delphinium spp.) is a highly toxic plant that can be found in the Poison Garden. All parts of the plant, including the leaves, stems, flowers, and seeds, contain a number of toxic alkaloids, including delphinine and ajacine, which can cause serious health effects if ingested.

Symptoms of delphinium poisoning can include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, muscle weakness, respiratory failure, and even death in severe cases. As such, visitors to the Poison Garden are reminded to exercise extreme caution when handling or consuming any part of the delphinium plant.

While delphiniums are prized for their beautiful flowers, they should be handled with care due to their toxic effects. In addition to their use as ornamental plants, delphiniums have also been used in traditional medicine for their sedative and pain-relieving effects. However, due to the plant's toxicity and potential for harm, these uses are not recommended and are strictly regulated in most countries.

It is important to note that delphiniums can also be dangerous to pets and livestock, who may be more susceptible to the plant's toxic effects. As such, pet owners and farmers should be particularly vigilant when growing or handling delphiniums, and should take appropriate measures to ensure that animals do not come into contact with the plant.

Overall, visitors to the Poison Garden are advised to avoid handling or consuming any part of the delphinium plant, and to seek immediate medical attention if they suspect that they or someone else has come into contact with the plant.

Foxglove

Foxglove (Digitalis purpurea) is a beautiful but highly poisonous plant found within the Poison Garden.

Native to Europe, foxglove contains a number of toxic compounds, including digitalis, which can cause cardiac arrhythmia, vomiting, hallucinations, and even death if ingested in sufficient quantities.

Despite its toxicity, foxglove has been used in medicine for centuries. The plant's extract has been used to treat heart conditions such as atrial fibrillation and congestive heart failure, as well as for its diuretic and anti-inflammatory properties.

However, due to the plant's narrow therapeutic window and the potential for toxicity, medical use of foxglove is carefully controlled and monitored.

In addition to its medicinal uses, foxglove has also been used as a poison throughout history, particularly in the Middle Ages, where it was used as a means of assassination and to induce visions during shamanic rituals.

Visitors to the Poison Garden are reminded to exercise caution and to not touch or ingest any part of the foxglove plant. If you suspect that you or someone else has come into contact with the plant, seek medical attention immediately.

Henbane

Henbane (Hyoscyamus niger) is a highly toxic plant found within the Poison Garden. All parts of the plant, including the leaves, flowers, and seeds, contain a number of toxic alkaloids, including hyoscyamine and scopolamine, which can cause a range of serious health effects if ingested.

Henbane has a long history of use in traditional medicine and as a recreational drug due to its hallucinogenic properties. However, due to its toxicity and potential for harm, henbane is now strictly regulated in most countries.

Symptoms of henbane poisoning can include confusion, delirium, hallucinations, convulsions, respiratory failure, and even death in severe cases. As such, visitors to the Poison Garden are reminded to exercise extreme caution when handling or consuming any part of the henbane plant.

It is important to note that henbane can be particularly dangerous to children and pets, who may be more susceptible to the plant's toxic effects. As such, parents and pet owners should be particularly vigilant when visiting the Poison Garden and should always keep a close eye on children and animals to ensure that they do not come into contact with any poisonous plants.

Overall, while henbane may have some historical significance and uses in traditional medicine, visitors to the Poison Garden are strongly advised to avoid handling or consuming this plant and to seek medical attention immediately if they suspect that they or someone else has come into contact with henbane.

Lily

Lilies (Lilium spp.) are a popular ornamental plant that is commonly grown in gardens for their colorful and fragrant flowers. While lilies are generally safe for human consumption, there are some concerns about the toxicity of the plant, particularly to pets.

All true lilies, including Easter lilies and Tiger lilies, are highly toxic to cats and can cause kidney failure if ingested in even small amounts (including licking a small amount of pollen off of fur, or drinking water a cut lily has been in). Symptoms of lily toxicity in cats can include vomiting, loss of appetite, lethargy, and increased urination and thirst. When cats are not aggressively very early after ingestion, lily toxicity will lead to kidney failure and death.

While lilies are generally safe for human consumption, it is important to note that some people may be allergic to the plant, particularly the pollen. Symptoms of lily pollen allergy can include sneezing, runny nose, and itchy eyes.

In addition to their ornamental uses, lilies have also been used in traditional medicine for their anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties. However, these uses are not recommended and are not backed by scientific evidence.

Overall, visitors to the Poison Garden should exercise caution when handling lilies, particularly if they have pets that may be susceptible to lily toxicity. Pet owners should avoid growing lilies in areas where their pets may come into contact with the plant, and should seek veterinary attention if they suspect their animal has ingested any part of the lily plant.

Lupine (Lupinus)

Lupine contains a variety of toxic alkaloids, including lupinine, anagyrine, and sparteine. Ingesting any part of the plant, especially the seeds and pods, can cause symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea, confusion, and even respiratory failure in severe cases.

Please do not touch or consume any part of the Lupine plant. If you believe you or someone you know has come into contact with Lupine, seek medical attention immediately.

Milkweed

Milkweed (Asclepias) is a genus of plants that are native to North America and are well-known for their milky sap and distinctive seed pods. While milkweed is an important food source for monarch butterflies and other pollinators, certain species of milkweed can be toxic to humans and animals if ingested in large amounts.

The toxic compounds found in milkweed are called cardiac glycosides, which can cause a range of symptoms if ingested. These symptoms can include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, and in severe cases, irregular heartbeats and cardiac arrest.

Despite its toxicity, milkweed has been used in traditional medicine for its medicinal properties, particularly as a treatment for respiratory conditions such as asthma and bronchitis. However, the plant's high toxicity levels and potential for overdose make it a dangerous substance to use for self-medication.

In addition to its medicinal uses, milkweed has also been used in traditional folklore and mythology for its association with transformation and growth.

Overall, visitors to the Poison Garden should exercise caution when handling or consuming milkweed, and should avoid any contact with the plant if possible. Any suspected cases of milkweed poisoning should be treated as a medical emergency, and immediate medical attention should be sought.

Poppy

Poppies (Papaver spp.) are beautiful flowering plants found within the Poison Garden. While poppies have a long history of use in medicine and recreation, caution should be exercised when handling and consuming these plants.

Opium poppies (Papaver somniferum) are known for their production of opium, a highly addictive narcotic that can cause respiratory failure and death if ingested in large amounts. Opium is also the precursor to several other drugs, including morphine, codeine, and heroin.

In addition to opium, poppies also contain a number of toxic compounds, including alkaloids such as morphine and codeine, which can cause drowsiness, confusion, and respiratory depression if ingested in large amounts.

While poppy seeds, which come from the poppy plant's seed pods, are generally considered safe for consumption, it is important to note that they can sometimes contain trace amounts of opium and other alkaloids. As such, individuals who are subject to drug testing or who are taking certain medications should exercise caution when consuming poppy seeds.

Overall, while poppies are beautiful plants with a long history of use in medicine and recreation, visitors to the Poison Garden are reminded to exercise caution and to not touch or ingest any part of the poppy plant without proper medical guidance. If you suspect that you or someone else has come into contact with poppies, seek medical attention immediately.

Oleander nerium (variety Austin Pretty Limits purchased from Home Depot)

Oleander toxicity requires ingestion of plant material.

From University of Utah Health website

Oleander Toxicity

There are numerous natural sources of cardioactive steroids, or cardiac glycosides, in addition to the well-known foxglove (Digitalis purpurea) and the pharmaceutical derivative digoxin. Other examples include red squill, lily of the valley, oleander (Nerium oleander), yellow oleander (Cascabela thevetia), dogbane, pong pong tree, milkweed, and sea mango. Ingestion of yellow oleander seeds is a common method of suicide in southeast Asia.1

Oleander (Figure 1) grows across the southern United States (Figure 2). The toxic cardenolide oleandrin is found in all parts of the plants with the greatest concentrations in the leaves. Toxicity has occurred with ingestion of multiple leaves or decoction of oleander. Toxicity is unlikely from small pediatric exposures.

Toxicity is similar to digoxin: nausea, vomiting, and cardiac abnormalities including bradycardia, various AV blocks, and ventricular dysrhythmias .2 Oleandrin is similar to digoxin and inhibits Na+/K+ ATPase leading to increased intracellular Na+ concentrations. This leads to diminished function of the Na+/Ca2+ antiporter causing increased intracellular Ca2+.

Onion

Onions (Allium cepa) are a popular vegetable that are commonly used in cooking. While onions themselves are safe for consumption, cutting or crushing onions can release a gas called syn-propanethial-S-oxide, which can cause eye irritation and tearing in some people.

In addition to its culinary uses, onion has also been used in traditional medicine for its anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties. However, these uses are not recommended and are not backed by scientific evidence.

While onions are generally safe for human consumption, it is important to note that they can be toxic to pets, particularly cats and dogs. Ingesting large amounts of onions can cause damage to the red blood cells, leading to anemia and other health effects. As such, pet owners should be careful when feeding onions or any other Allium species to their pets, and should seek veterinary attention if their animal shows signs of onion toxicity.

Overall, visitors to the Poison Garden should exercise caution when handling onions, particularly when cutting or crushing the vegetable, and should avoid feeding onions to their pets.

Rhubarb

Rhubarb (Rheum rhabarbarum) is a popular edible plant that is often used in desserts such as pies, tarts, and crumbles. While rhubarb is generally considered safe to consume, caution should be exercised when handling and preparing the plant.

The leaves of the rhubarb plant contain high levels of oxalic acid, a toxic compound that can cause poisoning if ingested in large amounts. Symptoms of oxalic acid poisoning can include burning in the mouth and throat, nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, and even kidney failure.

It is important to note that the stems of the rhubarb plant, which are the edible part of the plant, contain much lower levels of oxalic acid than the leaves. However, it is still important to properly prepare the stems by removing the leaves and washing the stems thoroughly before cooking.

Additionally, individuals with a history of kidney stones or other kidney problems should be cautious when consuming rhubarb, as the oxalic acid in the plant can exacerbate these conditions.

Overall, rhubarb can be enjoyed safely in moderation when properly prepared and consumed in reasonable amounts. Visitors to the Poison Garden are reminded to exercise caution when handling any part of the rhubarb plant, especially the leaves, and to always follow proper preparation and cooking procedures.

Stinging Nettle

Stinging nettle (Urtica dioica) is a common plant that is native to Europe, Asia, and North America. Despite its name and reputation for causing discomfort, stinging nettle has a long history of use in traditional medicine for its anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties.

The leaves and stems of the stinging nettle plant are covered in tiny, hollow hairs that contain histamine, serotonin, and other chemicals that can cause skin irritation and itching if they come into contact with the skin. While the stinging sensation can be uncomfortable, it is generally not harmful and will typically go away on its own within a few hours.

In addition to its medicinal uses, stinging nettle has also been used as a food source, particularly in traditional European cuisine. The plant is rich in vitamins and minerals, and can be cooked and eaten like spinach or used to make tea.

Overall, while stinging nettle can cause discomfort if handled improperly, it is generally considered safe for human consumption and has a long history of use in traditional medicine. Visitors to the Poison Garden are reminded to exercise caution when handling stinging nettle, and to seek medical attention if they experience any severe allergic reactions or symptoms of toxicity.

Tobacco

Tobacco (Nicotiana tabacum) is a plant that is widely cultivated around the world for its leaves, which are used for smoking, chewing, and snuffing. Tobacco contains the addictive drug nicotine, as well as other toxic compounds such as tar and carbon monoxide, which can have a range of negative health effects.

Handling green tobacco leaves can expose the skin to nicotine, which can be absorbed through the skin and cause nicotine poisoning. Nicotine poisoning can cause a range of symptoms, including nausea, vomiting, dizziness, headaches, weakness, and confusion. In severe cases, it can also cause seizures and respiratory failure.

To minimize the risk of nicotine poisoning when handling green tobacco leaves, it is important to wear protective clothing, such as gloves and long sleeves, and to avoid touching the leaves directly with bare skin. If contact with the skin does occur, the affected area should be washed thoroughly with soap and water.

It is also important to handle green tobacco leaves in a well-ventilated area, as exposure to tobacco dust and other particles can cause respiratory irritation and other health problems.

Smoking tobacco has been linked to a variety of health problems, including lung cancer, heart disease, stroke, and respiratory illnesses such as emphysema and bronchitis. Secondhand smoke from tobacco is also a major health risk, particularly for children and non-smoking adults.

Despite the health risks associated with tobacco use, it has a long history of use in traditional medicine for its medicinal properties, particularly as a pain reliever and an appetite suppressant. However, the potential for addiction and negative health effects make tobacco a dangerous substance to use for self-medication.

Overall, visitors to the Poison Garden should exercise extreme caution when handling or consuming tobacco, and should avoid any contact with the plant if possible. Any suspected cases of tobacco poisoning or addiction should be treated as a medical emergency, and immediate medical attention should be sought.

Tomato

Tomato (Solanum lycopersicum) is a popular fruit that is commonly grown in gardens and used in cooking. While the fruit itself is safe for consumption, other parts of the tomato plant, such as the leaves and stems, contain toxic compounds called glycoalkaloids, which can cause a range of health effects if ingested in large amounts.

Symptoms of tomato plant toxicity can include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, dizziness, and headaches. While cases of tomato plant poisoning are rare, it is important to exercise caution when handling the plant and to avoid consuming any parts of the plant other than the ripe fruit.

In addition to its culinary uses, the tomato plant has also been used in traditional medicine for its anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties. However, these uses are not recommended and are not backed by scientific evidence.

Overall, while the tomato plant is generally safe when handled and consumed in moderation, visitors to the Poison Garden are reminded to exercise caution and to avoid handling or consuming any part of the plant other than the ripe fruit.

Valerian

Valerian (Valeriana officinalis) is a plant commonly used for its sedative and calming effects. Valerian root can have similar effects to catnip on cats, and is a potential alternative for the cats who lack receptors for catnip. While valerian is generally considered safe for consumption in small amounts, caution should be exercised when handling and consuming this plant.

Valerian contains a number of active compounds, including valerenic acid and valeranone, which are thought to be responsible for its sedative properties. While these compounds are generally considered safe, they can cause drowsiness, dizziness, and other side effects, particularly when consumed in large amounts.

Additionally, valerian can interact with certain medications, including sedatives, antidepressants, and anti-anxiety medications. Individuals taking these medications should consult with a healthcare provider before consuming valerian.

While valerian is often used as an herbal supplement for its calming effects, it is important to note that the safety and efficacy of valerian supplements have not been well established by scientific research. As such, individuals considering the use of valerian supplements should consult with a healthcare provider before doing so.

Overall, while valerian can be enjoyed safely in moderation when properly prepared and consumed, visitors to the Poison Garden are reminded to exercise caution and to always follow proper preparation and dosing guidelines. If you suspect that you or someone else has come into contact with valerian, seek medical attention immediately.