Confusion about edible fruits and toxic ingredients
The fact that the edible fruits are not only processed into jams and jellies, but can also be consumed fresh, speaks for the harmlessness of the rock pear. However, the leaves of the common rock pear (Amelanchier ovalis), for example, are said to contain toxins, which is why children and pets with a restricted taste for the bitter substances in the leaves (which actually warn against consumption) should not nibble on the leaves. Even more important, however, is the fact that the seeds of the fruit contain cyanogenic glycosides, which could theoretically lead to hydrocyanic acid poisoning if larger quantities were consumed. However, most of the seeds of the rock pear are excreted undigested when eaten fresh and larger quantities must be consumed.to cause real symptoms of intoxication.
also read
- Copper rock pear is not poisonous
- The fruits of the rock pear - decorative and edible
- Harvest and use the fruits of the rock pear
These symptoms can occur when eating the seeds
With their hydrocyanic acid content, the pear seeds are comparable to the toxin content of apple seeds. If too large amounts of the kernels are actually consumed (especially with unripe fruits), the following symptoms can sometimes occur:
- nausea
- Nausea
- diarrhea
As an immediate measure, larger amounts of fluids should be drunk when these symptoms occur (tea, juice, water), after which a doctor should be consulted as soon as possible in order to rule out further complications.
Avoid risks and enjoy the fruits of the rock pear carefree
In order to prevent risks associated with eating the fruits of a rock pear, children in particular should not eat the fruits fresh to a large extent. Since the hydrocyanic acid contained in it is broken down during cooking, jams made from the fruit can be consumed without hesitation. In addition, care can be taken to eat the fruits only without the seeds they contain.
Tips
Even with varieties of rock pear with poisonous leaves, only the consumption of the leaves and the kernels holds a potential hazard. Cutbacks and other maintenance measures can be carried out safely without gloves.
