What immediate gastrointestinal effects result from ingesting Ornithogalum plant material?
Answer
Vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain
Accidental consumption of any part of the Star of Bethlehem plant typically initiates a gastrointestinal distress response in both humans and animals. The immediate symptoms commonly reported following ingestion focus heavily on the digestive system. These symptoms include experiencing vomiting, which is the body's attempt to expel the toxin; diarrhea, indicating irritation and disruption of normal bowel function; and general abdominal pain, resulting from the irritation caused by the hazardous compounds present in the plant material. This response is why careful management is crucial, especially in gardens accessible to toddlers or pets who might mistake the low-growing bulbs for edible greens.
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