Buckthorn is a widespread plant that often prompts questions about its safety for both people and pets. Understanding the potential effects of buckthorn berries and how to identify this plant can help prevent accidental ingestion.
Buckthorn’s Effects on Humans
Ingesting buckthorn berries can lead to gastrointestinal upset in humans. While generally not considered deadly, symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, abdominal cramps, and diarrhea are common after consumption. These effects are due to compounds called anthraquinones, which stimulate the intestines and cause a laxative effect.
The severity of symptoms often depends on the amount of berries consumed and an individual’s sensitivity. Unripe berries may contain higher concentrations of these compounds, potentially leading to a stronger reaction. While the discomfort is usually temporary, avoiding ingestion is advised.
Buckthorn’s Effects on Animals
Buckthorn berries can also be toxic to animals, with symptoms mirroring those seen in humans, including gastrointestinal distress. Dogs and cats that ingest buckthorn berries may experience vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, loss of appetite, and lethargy. For smaller animals, these symptoms can be more pronounced due to their body size.
Prompt veterinary attention is important if a pet consumes a significant quantity of buckthorn berries. The plant’s compounds irritate the gastrointestinal system in animals, making ingestion a concern for pet owners.
Recognizing Buckthorn and Taking Action
Identifying buckthorn is important for prevention. Common buckthorn (Rhamnus cathartica) has distinct features:
- Leaves are oval, dark green, with finely serrated edges and noticeable veins, often staying green late into fall.
- Bark is gray to brown with a rough texture, revealing a bright orange inner layer when cut.
- Twigs often end in sharp, thorn-like tips.
- Berries are dark purple to black and pea-sized, appearing in clusters in late summer.
Glossy buckthorn (Frangula alnus) is another common type, identifiable by:
- Thornless branches and stems.
- Simple, oval, dark green, glossy leaves with smooth edges.
- Dark gray or brown bark with white lenticels and a yellow inner bark.
- Berries that progressively ripen from red to dark purple.
If buckthorn berries are ingested by a human, contacting poison control is advisable. For pets, immediately call a veterinarian or an animal poison control center. Do not attempt to induce vomiting unless instructed by a medical or veterinary professional. Prevention involves educating children about not eating unknown berries and supervising pets to prevent them from consuming wild plants. Removing buckthorn from properties can also reduce the risk of accidental ingestion.