Herbal poisoning cases in Turkey: a narrative review

For centuries, humans have harnessed the diverse benefits of plants for a variety of purposes, including food, spices, medicinal remedies and home decoration. While there are thousands of plant species on Earth, some are toxic and instances of poisoning from the consumption of these toxic plants are documented in the literature. Toxic effects are often attributed to compounds such as alkaloids, anthraquinones, saponins, oxalic acid and cardioactive and cyanogenic compounds. In this research, some cases of herbal poisoning in Turkey were examined. It was observed that plants such as Rhododendron ponticum, Rhododendron luteum, Atropa belladonna, Conium maculatum, Ecballium elaterium, Nicotiana rustica, Dieffenbachia species Amanita phalloides, and herbal products such as Apple oil and Apricot seeds, are contributors to poisoning in Turkey. These cases of poisoning were observed in all age groups. Ornamental plants at home can pose a poisoning risk to children. While some poisonings result in mild symptoms, others can be life-threatening, and treatment typically focuses on alleviating symptoms and administering antidotes. Such poisonings may occur accidentally, carelessly or consciously. It is, therefore, necessary to exercise caution with poisonous plants and herbal products, and raise public awareness about their risk. Emergency medical personnel should have basic knowledge about plant poisonings, as recognizing the poisonous agent and providing prompt treatment can be life-saving in these situations.

Herbal poisoning; Turkey; Treatment methods

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