No matter how beautiful its flowers are, the oleander is highly poisonous. We show you how to recognize and treat oleander poisoning in humans and animals.
The oleander (Nerium oleander) should be treated with extreme caution. All parts of the plant contain substances that are toxic to humans. Despite this, oleander does not usually pose a hazard to children or pets as it tastes very bitter. However, should something happen, it is imperative that you take immediate action to prevent serious poisoning.
Poisonous Oleander
Oleander is toxic and the exact reason is the glycosides oleandrin and neandrin. The plant produces both substances as a defense against predators, but they are also effective against humans. However, many plant toxins are also used as medicines in small doses - oleandrine, for example, can have a calming and strengthening effect on the heart and can be used to treat skin eczema. However, treatment with oleandrin may only be carried out using finished preparations from the pharmacy and under the supervision of a doctor!
Which parts of the oleander are poisonous?
No matter whether leaf, flower, fruit or even root - all parts of the oleander are poisonous. Although common ornamental varieties have a slightly lower poison content than wild varieties, they should still be handled with care. Even oleander smoke is poisonous. Therefore, do not burn any green waste, but rather dispose of it with household waste. The toxicity of the oleander is roughly in the range of the toxicity of lily of the valley (Convallaria majalis) and foxglove (Digitalis purpurea). According to this, although it is poisonous and can even be fatal in high doses, it is less dangerous than monkshood (Aconitum) and autumn crocus (Colchicum autumnale ). Since the fatal dose is more than one leaf consumed and the leaves of the oleander taste extremely bitter, death is very unlikely. However, symptoms of poisoning can occur, especially in children, if a leaf is put in the mouthis taken.
Detecting oleander poisoning
Oleandrin has good efficacy in the treatment of cardiac disorders. In higher doses, however, it has the opposite effect and can become very dangerous. In order not to let it get that far, you should contact a doctor immediately if you notice any symptoms.
Poisoning symptoms in children and adults
Poisoning with oleandrin and neandrin leads to nausea and vomiting as well as abdominal pain and diarrhea. The blood circulation deteriorates, so that the extremities such as hands and feet become pale and cool. The poisoning can also be recognized by enlarged pupils. If the dose is too high, cardiac arrhythmias and paralysis of the heart and breathing occur. The consequences of this are coma and, in extreme cases, death after two to three hours.
Note: Skin contact with oleander sap can also cause irritation. It is therefore better to wear protective gloves when cutting the plant.
Poisoning symptoms in cats, dogs and Co.
Animals basically have symptoms of poisoning that are very similar to those of children and adults: the pupils widen, the blood supply to the extremities is poor and they become cold as a result. Vomiting and diarrhea are other symptoms.
Treating poisoning with oleander
If you have noticed that a part of the oleander has been eaten by a person or an animal, immediately remove all plant residues still in the mouth. Normally, however, these are immediately spat out again simply because of the bitter taste. The patient should then drink a lot, preferably water. Under no circumstances should you reach for milk, as this increases the absorption of the poison in the body. The urge to vomit should also not be triggered. After these first measures, contact a doctor immediately!
In case of poisoning with oleander:
- Remove plant debris from mouth
- Drink plenty of water (but never milk!)
- Contact a doctor immediately!