Page 24 - The world of dangerous PLants

Family:Rutaceae

R.Chalepensis Ruta is a genus of about ten accepted species of strongly scented ever-
green subshrubs, the most popular of the species being the Common rue or rue.
All plants of this genus are toxic and have a low to medium toxicity level. Symp-
toms of toxic poisoning, for both humans and animals, after a large amount has
been consumed, could be violent gastric pain, vomiting and diarrhoea, severe
liver damage, that could lead to death; it can even, if enough is eaten, cause mis-
R.graveolens carriages in pregnant women. The sap from the leaves, however, requires a
much smaller amount. It’s absorbed through the skin and can cause, stomach
pains, fainting, sleepiness, a weak pulse and a swollen tongue. In small amounts
rue is often used as a natural herb seasoning, however, there are some people
who might find even this type of usage unsafe. The toxins in these plants can
cause a great deal of painful discomfort, so warn children of the danger they
pose, keep pets away from them and always wear
gloves when handling them.

Family:Amaryllidaceae

G.Elwesii G.Plicatus
Galanthus, is a genus of about 20 species of bulbous perennial
herbaceous plants commonly known as Common snowdrops. All
plants of this genus have a low toxicity level. Symptoms of toxic poi-
soning, for both humans and animals, could be nausea, vomiting,
diarrhoea, and stomach discomfort. Although considered safe to
handle, it’s always recommended to wear gloves when handling any
G.lagodechianus G.woronowii plant that has the potential to cause harm. Although toxic, com-
pounds in the plant and bulb are used in modern medicine as pain-
killers and to treat Alzheimer's disease. However, if eaten raw by
humans or animals, they are still toxic. Children should be warned
never to put any part of them near their mouths, and pet supervised
to make sure they do not eat or chew them.

Family:Caryophyllaceae
Corn-cockle
Agrostemma is a genus of two annual plants known as corncock-
les, the best known being the Common corncockle. These plants are
toxic and have a low to medium toxicity level. Symptoms of toxic poi-
soning, for both humans and animals could be stomach pain, vomiting,
diarrhoea, dizziness, weakness, and breathing difficulties. Their seeds
are highly toxic and should never be fed to birds or poultry. They are
safe to handle, however, you should always wear gloves when handling
potentially harmful plants. Although they make attractive garden plants
they are usually found growing in the wild where they are labelled as
weeds. If you have one of these plants in your care or know of one near-
by you should warn children of the danger they pose and keep pets
away from them.