Rhododendron Poisoning

The rhododendron is a common plant in many gardens due to its colorful flowers and hearty, year-round, evergreen foliage. Rhododendrons are highly toxic and pose a risk of poisoning in both humans and animals.

Cause

• The toxic substance contained in the rhododendron is known as andromedotoxin. Poisoning occurs due to eating any part of the plant, though the leaves carry the highest concentrations of the toxin.

Symptoms

• Symptoms of rhododendron poisoning include drooling, watery eyes, runny nose, abdominal pain, lack of energy, depression, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, weakness and difficult breathing, explains North Carolina State University.

Time Frame

• The symptoms of rhododendron poisoning typically begin six hours after ingestion.

Risks

• Eating large amounts of rhododendron may cause a gradual onset of paralysis in your limbs as well as coma and death, warns North Carolina State University. There is also a risk of permanent liver or kidney damage associated with andromedotoxin, according to the University of Illinois.

Treatment

• The treatment for rhododendron poisoning varies based upon how much was consumed, but often includes inducing vomiting. The symptoms of minor cases of poisoning often resolve within one hour, with illness persisting for a number of days or weeks, says the University of Illinois.

Warning

• If a human has ingested rhododendron, contact your local poison control for guidance.