Herbs give us delicious flavors, powerful fragrances, and remedies for various ills, but most can have dangerous side effects if taken in excess.
Herbs contain volatile oils that can be poisonous. In small doses they may contribute to our health, but are not a cure-all for serious diseases for which medical diagnosis and treatment must be sought.
Some herbs are extremely poisonous and must never be ingested. These include: Foxglove and Lily-of-the-Valley. Be extremely careful when growing these plants around young children and animals.
All parts of Foxglove are toxic and should never be eaten. It can cause nausea, vomiting, and blindness.
The Lily-of-the-Valley is a beautiful, but poisonous herb, and must only be used by qualified practitioners.
HERB CAUTION:
Pregnant or nursing woman and people with heart problems should always consult with a professional before using herbal remedies.
