What potent cardiac glycosides are the primary concern in Ornithogalum species toxicity?
Answer
Cardenolides
The primary toxicological concern associated with plants belonging to the *Ornithogalum* genus, including the Star of Bethlehem, is the presence of cardenolides. Cardenolides are classified as potent cardiac glycosides. This classification indicates their specific mechanism of action: they directly interfere with the function of the heart muscle. Because of this potent cardiotoxicity, ingestion of any part of the raw plant is considered dangerous, even though documentation on widespread human poisonings might be less common than for other household toxins. This chemical profile necessitates strict avoidance of consumption by people and pets.
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What potent cardiac glycosides are the primary concern in Ornithogalum species toxicity?Which Ornithogalum species is most frequently associated with the common name Star of Bethlehem?What immediate gastrointestinal effects result from ingesting Ornithogalum plant material?Why is simple mowing ineffective for eliminating Star of Bethlehem persistence in a yard?What distinguishes consuming the raw Star of Bethlehem bulb from its homeopathic use?How many tepals typically characterize the striking white flowers of Ornithogalum umbellatum?What physiological function do cardenolides, identified in Ornithogalum, directly affect?What is the most effective recommended strategy for removing O. umbellatum from a landscape?Which parts of the Ornithogalum plant contain potentially hazardous compounds?What public concern often centers community focus on Ornithogalum besides documented human poisoning incidents?Why might removing a patch of O. umbellatum result in several patches next season?