2023-04-20 07:19:54
ANSES recalls the good reflexes to avoid intoxication due to a plant very similar to wild garlic.
spring marks the return of wild pickings in the undergrowth. And among the plants most popular with walkers is wild garlic. Recognizable both by its beautiful white flower but also by its smell, this seasonal herb is a delight for gourmets. But it can unintentionally cause food poisoning.
In effect, the leaves of wild garlic are very similar to those of another plant: colchicum. However, it is toxic to humans. Moreover, every year, many people end up in the emergency room because of this plant. Two deaths were even recorded between 2020 and 2022.
In order to prevent new tragedies from taking place, ANSES and the anti-poison center wanted to warn the pickers as well as possible. In a press release shared on April 19, 2023 on its official websiteANSES reminds the right things to know for a successful harvest aromatic.
Clearly differentiate colchicum from wild garlic by observing, smelling and asking an expert for advice
The first instinct is to observe the plants in detail. Wild garlic has the peculiarity of blooming in spring. The flower is white with long petals. Colchicum, on the other hand, only blooms in autumn and has purple flowers. Concentrate on the flowerbeds displaying the white flowers.
However, the presence of flowers does not mean that colchicum is absent. To avoid unpleasant surprises, do not hesitate to solicit your sense of smell. After picking up a leaf, rub it gently. If it gives off a garlic scent, you can pick it up without worry. If it gives off no scent, the leaf is stiff and has no stem, it is colchicum.
Memos intended for walkers are given for information only. But in many cases, they can avoid an express trip to the local poison control center. Moreover, ANSES also issues preventive reminders throughout the year. This is particularly the case in autumn when picking wild mushrooms.
What are the symptoms of colchicum poisoning?
Despite these tips, it may happen that a leaf or two of colchicum slip into your harvest. It is partly for this reason that ANSES recommends pick up one leaf at a time. If, however, the poisonous plant is ingested, the nature of the symptoms it causes may vary.
Factors like the medications taken or the amount consumed can intensify the side effects of the poison. Generally, the people concerned suffer from more or less strong digestive disorders. The colchicine contained in the plant causes diarrhea or vomiting.
But in some more serious cases, it can cause liver problems or more severe symptoms. If you notice any of these symptoms after eating a dish said to contain wild garlic, contact the nearest poison control center as soon as possible.
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