Ground Ivy (Glechoma hederacea) is a familiar, creeping perennial often called Creeping Charlie or Gill-over-the-ground. Despite its common name, it belongs to the mint family (Lamiaceae), not the true ivy family. Because this plant is widespread and invasive, questions often arise about its safety for humans, household pets, and grazing livestock. This article investigates the toxicity of Ground Ivy to determine the genuine risks associated with ingestion.
Identifying Ground Ivy and Its Toxic Components
Ground Ivy is identifiable by its rounded, kidney-shaped leaves with scalloped edges, which grow oppositely on square stems. Crushed leaves emit a distinct, musky mint odor. Small, funnel-shaped blue-violet flowers typically bloom in early spring.
The plant’s toxicity is attributed to several compounds present throughout the leaves and stems. Like many mint family plants, it contains volatile aromatic oils, which are the primary source of concern for certain species. The plant also contains a bitter principle and pyrrolidine alkaloids, such as hederacines A and B. The volatile oils and bitter substances are the main agents that cause adverse reactions upon ingestion.
Specific Risks to Humans and Companion Animals
Accidental ingestion of Ground Ivy presents a low-level, mild toxicity risk for humans and small companion animals. The plant’s bitter taste usually deters people and pets from consuming large quantities. In humans, consumption is not considered safe, particularly for individuals who are pregnant or have pre-existing liver conditions or epilepsy.
If a dog or cat ingests a small amount, they may exhibit mild to moderate gastrointestinal upset. Common symptoms include vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, and excessive drooling. Severe poisoning in household pets is rare because the volume required for a serious reaction is far greater than a pet would consume accidentally. Owners should monitor pets closely after any ingestion, as all parts of the plant are considered toxic.
High Risk for Horses and Grazing Livestock
The risk profile shifts significantly for larger grazing animals, particularly horses. Ground Ivy is highly toxic to horses when consumed in large quantities, whether fresh in pasture or dried in hay. Horses are the species most frequently and severely affected by this poisoning.
The danger is amplified because horses metabolize the plant’s volatile oils poorly, leading to systemic issues. Toxicity can occur if horses consume a diet containing a high percentage of the plant, such as hay contaminated with 30% or more Ground Ivy. Symptoms include profuse sweating, excessive salivation, labored breathing, and dilated pupils. While poisoning is rarely fatal, consuming large volumes can lead to serious conditions like pulmonary edema and severe gastrointestinal distress, requiring immediate veterinary intervention.
Immediate Steps Following Exposure
If you suspect a human has ingested Ground Ivy, contact a certified Poison Control Center immediately for specific guidance. Immediate steps depend heavily on the amount consumed and the individual’s health status. It is advisable to remove any remaining plant material from the mouth and save a sample of the plant for identification.
If ingestion by a pet or livestock animal is suspected, immediately remove the animal from the contaminated area. Contact your veterinarian or a pet poison helpline without delay, even if the animal is not yet showing symptoms. Providing the veterinarian with an accurate estimate of the amount consumed and the animal’s weight will assist in determining the course of action. The animal should be switched to a known safe feed source immediately, and supportive care may be advised to manage symptoms like gastrointestinal distress or respiratory issues.