hazardous seasonal plants > mistletoe - Viscum album




 


© Purdue University, School of Veterinary Medicine


© London Wildlife Trust

 

Clinical signs of poisoning...

The toxic compounds found in mistletoe are proteins viscotoxin A and B. Leaves and stems are said to be more toxic than the white decorative berries. Mistletoe is a partial parasite growing on many types of trees. Interestingly its toxicity varies upon the tree it grows on. Children sometimes eat the berries leading to mild to severe stomach ache. Reactions following mistletoe ingestion are very variable, serious toxifications are rare but even fatal poisonings have been reported both for human and pets. Suggested treatment: induced vomiting.

© Purdue University, School of Veterinary Medicine