The term “bud” is ambiguous, referring either to a general plant flower or leaf bud, or, commonly, to a raw cannabis flower. The health implications vary wildly depending on the source material ingested. While some plant matter may only cause minor digestive upset, others can be highly toxic, leading to severe and life-threatening symptoms. The body’s reaction is determined by the chemical composition of the specific plant eaten.
Understanding General Plant Toxicity
Ingesting non-cannabis plant material can range from harmless to extremely dangerous, depending on the species. Many common garden and wild plants contain naturally occurring toxins, which cause a spectrum of adverse effects. Non-toxic or mildly toxic buds, such as those from common herbs, may cause temporary nausea, minor abdominal cramps, or vomiting because the body struggles to digest the fibrous cellulose structure.
However, many ornamental plants contain potent, poisonous compounds. For example, the buds or leaves of plants like oleander and foxglove contain cardenolides, toxins that can dangerously affect the heart’s rhythm. Other plants, such as the water hemlock, contain neurotoxins that can rapidly cause seizures, confusion, and muscle weakness. Symptoms of severe plant poisoning can sometimes be delayed, so an absence of immediate distress does not guarantee safety.
Ingesting Raw Cannabis: The Chemical Barrier
When “bud” refers to the raw, unheated flower of the cannabis plant, the effects are fundamentally different from those of toxic ornamental plants. A common misconception is that eating raw cannabis will produce a psychoactive “high,” but this is chemically inaccurate. The cannabis plant produces cannabinoids in an acidic form, most notably tetrahydrocannabinolic acid (THCA), which is non-intoxicating.
THCA does not bind effectively to the brain’s primary cannabinoid receptors (CB1 receptors) responsible for psychoactive effects. To become the psychoactive compound delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), THCA must undergo decarboxylation. This chemical reaction involves removing a carboxyl group from the molecule, typically achieved by applying heat, such as through smoking, vaping, or baking.
Since raw cannabis has not been heated, the THCA remains intact, and eating the raw bud will not result in a euphoric feeling. The physical effects are generally limited to mild gastrointestinal discomfort. This discomfort is primarily due to the high fiber and cellulose content of the plant matter, which the human digestive system struggles to break down. While not psychoactive, THCA and other acidic cannabinoids, like cannabidiolic acid (CBDA), are being studied for potential therapeutic properties, including anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective effects.
Immediate Steps Following Accidental Ingestion
If a non-cannabis bud or unknown plant matter is accidentally ingested, the first step is to assess the potential danger. If the plant is known to be non-toxic and only minor digestive upset occurs, monitoring symptoms at home may be sufficient. If the source is unknown or suspected to be poisonous, immediate action is necessary.
Any instance involving severe symptoms—such as difficulty breathing, confusion, seizures, or an abnormal heartbeat—requires calling for emergency medical assistance. For all other suspected plant poisonings, contact Poison Control at 1-800-222-1222. Do not wait for severe symptoms to appear, as some plant toxins can cause a delayed but dangerous reaction.
Poison Control specialists can help identify the plant and determine the next steps, which may include home observation or seeking urgent medical care. If possible, save a sample of the ingested plant to aid medical professionals in identification.