Page 56 - The world of dangerous PLants

Family:Polygonaceae
Rheum, is a genus of around 60 species of herbaceous perennials,
R.Australe R.Maximowiczii
with most known as Rhubarb. The leaves of the rhubarb are toxic
while the stalks (petioles) are edible. Eating the leaves can induce
symptoms of toxic poisoning such as stomach pain, vomiting, and sei-
zures, blistering and swelling in the mouth. This genus is a very diverse
group, with some like, R.rhaponticum and R.rhabarbarum, thought to
be the ancestors of past edible species, are now listed as wild and inedi-
R.Palaestinum R.ribes
ble, and R.palmatum, a large, 6ft tall species, is thought today as being
merely ornamental. Many of the species are involved in ongoing medi-
cal research or involved in traditional medicines. However, only the
cultivar R.× hybridum (Garden rhubarb) is accepted as being the only
edible rhubarb of the genus and is the one today that is found in our

pies, tarts, and other sweet desserts.

Family:Lamiaceae
Salvia, is a large genus of numerous species of herbaceous peren-
S.Apiana S.Azurea nial shrubs, and annual plants. Some like, S. officinalis, and Rosemary,
(S. rosmarinus), are known as Sage. (Not to be confused with Bog rose-
mary and Rosemary grevillea; both are different species and toxic).
All the Salvia species are considered non-toxic and safe to eat. Many
plants in this genus are used in cookery or simply as display or orna-
mental plants. However, some like Salvia divinorum, are believed to
S.Elegans S.fulgens have a mild toxin that can render people unconscious for a short period
of time. Although the Rosemary plant has been used in some medicines
for many years, it is known that some people are prone to some mild
side effects. Rosemary oil, another extract, and used to prevent hair
loss, relieve pain and inflammation, and improve circulation, should
never be taken orally as it could have serious side effects.

Family:Polygonaceae
Rumex, is a genus of about 200 species of annual, biennial, and
perennial herbs (Docks & Sorrels). Most plants in this genus like docks
R.Acetosa R.Alpinus
and sorrels are toxic if eaten in large quantities, and have a low to me-
dium toxicity level. Toxic poisoning could induce hay fever, asthma,
rheumatism, arthritis, gout, excessive acidity and the development of
kidney stones. However, the leaves of the Common Dock and Yellow
Dock are edible if consumed in small quantities. Sorrels are also edible
R.Altissimus R.brownii in palatable amounts but not in excess. Rumex plants have a long culi-
nary history of being used in salads, soups, sauces, tart flavouring, and
curdling agent for cheese. They are also, highly toxic, for dogs, cats and
grazing livestock. Always keep animals away from these plants, as eat-
ing or chewing them could be fatal. If you suspect poisoning, always
get medical help immediately.