The plant commonly referred to as “yellow jasmine” is often mistaken for non-toxic species of the true Jasminum genus. In North America, this name usually refers to Gelsemium sempervirens, also known as Carolina Yellow Jasmine or Yellow Jessamine. This vine is highly toxic, containing potent neurotoxins that pose a serious, potentially lethal threat to humans and pets upon ingestion. The danger lies in the plant’s deceptive appearance and fragrant nature, which can lead to accidental exposure.
Clarifying the Identity: True Jasmine Versus Toxic Look-Alikes
The confusion stems from the common name, as the toxic Gelsemium sempervirens is not a true jasmine. True jasmines belong to the Oleaceae family, while Carolina Yellow Jasmine is in the Gelsemiaceae family. Gelsemium sempervirens is an evergreen, twining vine characterized by shiny, dark green leaves arranged oppositely along the stem. Its flowers are brightly colored, funnel-shaped, and intensely fragrant, blooming most often in the late winter or early spring. The key identifying feature is the opposite leaf arrangement and the distinct, trumpet-like shape of the yellow flowers.
Toxicity Mechanism
The toxicity of Gelsemium sempervirens is due to indole alkaloids, primarily gelsemine, gelsemicine, and sempervirine. These compounds are present throughout the entire plant, with the highest concentrations found in the roots, flowers, and nectar. Even small amounts of plant material, including nectar, can introduce a dangerous dose of these neurotoxins.
How the Toxin Affects the Human Body
Upon ingestion, the alkaloids in Gelsemium sempervirens act quickly on the central nervous system as potent neurotoxins. The main compound, gelsemine, functions by activating glycine receptors within the spinal cord and brainstem. This activation disrupts the normal inhibitory signals that control muscle movement.
A secondary mechanism involves the partial inhibition of GABA-A receptors, further destabilizing the nervous system. Initial symptoms often include excessive sweating, drooping eyelids (ptosis), and blurred or double vision. As the toxin spreads, it causes progressive muscle weakness, difficulty speaking and swallowing.
The most serious outcome is the effect on the respiratory system, as the neurotoxins can paralyze the muscles necessary for breathing. This muscle weakness progresses to respiratory depression, causing breathing to become shallow and slow. Without immediate medical intervention to support ventilation, this can quickly lead to respiratory failure and death.
Immediate Response and When to Seek Medical Attention
If ingestion is suspected, immediately contact the national toll-free Poison Help line at 1-800-222-1222. Do not wait for symptoms to appear before seeking professional guidance. Do not attempt to induce vomiting or administer home remedies, as this can complicate the medical situation.
When contacting the poison control center, provide precise information, including the age and weight of the exposed person. Also state the specific part of the plant consumed, the estimated amount, and the time of ingestion. This information allows specialists to assess the risk and guide the necessary steps.
Professional medical intervention is required due to the severity of the neurotoxins involved. The victim will likely need supportive care, which may include monitoring of breathing and heart function in a hospital setting. Swift action minimizes the time the toxins have to affect the body’s life-sustaining systems.