Springtime invites many people into forests and parks in search of the popular wild herb, wild garlic.
However, one small mistake can have devastating health consequences. Here are some essential facts to help you stay safe while foraging.
Wild garlic can be confused with deadly plants
Wild garlic closely resembles lily of the valley and autumn crocus, both of which are highly toxic and can be fatal if consumed.
Misidentification can harm vital organs
Eating these poisonous plants by mistake can cause severe damage to major organs, especially when large quantities are ingested.
The smell test is crucial
Crush the leaves and smell them: wild garlic emits a strong garlic-like scent, which the toxic look-alikes do not.
Flower details reveal the difference
Wild garlic has small, white, star-shaped flowers, which are distinctly different from the blooms of toxic plants.
Forage with an experienced guide
If you’re unsure, always go foraging with someone who knows how to accurately identify wild garlic and avoid dangerous mistakes.
Contact poison control immediately if in doubt
If you suspect that you or someone else has consumed a toxic plant, call your local poison control center without delay.
Lily of the valley affects the heart
Ingesting lily of the valley can cause severe heart rhythm disturbances, intense abdominal pain, and extreme nausea.
Autumn crocus is even deadlier
Autumn crocus contains potent toxins that can lead to multi-organ failure if consumed.
Poisoning can happen faster than you think
While small amounts of these plants may not seem dangerous, concentrated ingestion — such as using many leaves to make pesto — can quickly become life-threatening.
Poison control centers receive numerous calls every year
Every year, poison centers around the world report dozens of cases where foragers have mistakenly consumed toxic plants, highlighting the need for caution.
This article is based on information from B.T.