What distinguishes consuming the raw Star of Bethlehem bulb from its homeopathic use?
The raw plant has significantly higher concentrations of cardenolides.
A fundamental difference exists between the inherent toxicity of the raw plant material and its presentation in homeopathic remedies. The raw, fresh leaves, flowers, or bulbs of *Ornithogalum* contain significant, potentially dangerous concentrations of cardenolides. Conversely, homeopathic preparations are characterized by extreme dilution processes. This high dilution results in a final product that contains only trace amounts, or potentially no measurable molecules, of the original substance. Therefore, while the raw plant poses a direct chemical risk due to high toxin levels, the highly diluted homeopathic versions are considered vastly different in terms of acute toxicity.
