As a gardening and landscaping expert, I have come across various plants with toxic properties, and one such plant is Brugmansia, commonly known as Angel’s Trumpet. When it comes to Brugmansia, it is important to note that all parts of the plant, including the leaves, flowers, seeds, and stems, contain toxic substances. However, the seeds are considered the most poisonous part of the plant.
The toxicity of Brugmansia is primarily due to the presence of tropane alkaloids, such as atropine, scopolamine, and hyoscyamine. These alkaloids have potent anticholinergic effects and can cause a range of symptoms if ingested or even if they come into contact with the skin or eyes.
The seeds of Brugmansia contain a significant amount of atropine, with approximately 0.1 mg per seed or 3-6 mg per 50-100 seeds. Atropine is a powerful anticholinergic drug that affects the parasympathetic nervous system. It can cause dilated pupils, dry mouth, rapid heartbeat, difficulty in urination, and even hallucinations and delirium in larger doses.
It is crucial to exercise caution when handling Brugmansia seeds, as accidental ingestion can lead to severe poisoning, especially in children or pets. Ingestion of even a small number of seeds can result in serious health consequences.
Personally, I have had an experience where a friend’s child accidentally ingested a few Brugmansia seeds while playing in the garden. The child started showing symptoms like dilated pupils, restlessness, and flushing of the skin. We immediately called for medical help, and the child was rushed to the hospital for further treatment. Thankfully, the child recovered fully, but it was a reminder of how important it is to be aware of the potential dangers of poisonous plants.
To ensure safety, it is advised to handle Brugmansia plants with gloves and avoid contact with the eyes, mouth, or any open wounds. If you have Brugmansia plants in your garden, it is recommended to keep them out of reach of children and pets. Educating family members and visitors about the plant’s toxicity is also essential.
All parts of Brugmansia, including the seeds, are poisonous due to the presence of tropane alkaloids like atropine. The seeds contain a significant amount of atropine and can cause severe symptoms if ingested. It is crucial to exercise caution and take necessary precautions when handling Brugmansia plants to ensure the safety of both humans and animals.
