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Substances, plants and mushrooms

The list contains the most frequently asked about and most common causes of poisoning in humans. You can search for items by typing in a search word. If you do not find the item you are looking for, you may call the Poison Information Center to check if it is poisonous.

Unfortunately, the Poison Information Center is not able to identify plants and mushrooms over the phone. Identification should always take place on the spot.

In addition to books on mushroom identification, mushroom experts can help you identify mushrooms. Experts can be found via mycological societies and the Martha Organization, for example.

To Poison Information Center's main page

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Type

Explanation of symbols marked after the plant:

[F] = Phytophotodermatitis; sap or juice from the plant may cause skin symptoms, such as blisters, after exposure to sunlight.

[K] = The plant is non-toxic in moderate amounts or when properly prepared.

Plant causes topical irritation = Sap or juice from the plant may cause irritation (such as stinging) on the skin and in the mouth. Does not absorb into the body.

F

False morel (Gyromitra esculenta)

Mushrooms

False morel is poisonous when eaten raw or without adequate preparation. False morel can cause liver failure. Usually symptoms begin within 4-12 hours after ingestion. The typical symptoms in the beginning are vomiting, diarrhea, dizziness and headache.

Ingestion of a small amount (less than 2 cubes of sugar) does not require any treatment. If the ingested amount is more than 2-3 cubes of sugar, administer activated charcoal and seek medical assistance. Save the mushroom for possible identification afterwards.

Fertilisers

Substances

The content of fertilisers varies. Contact the Poison Information Centre to confirm toxicity.

Finger paint

Substances

A single dose is considered harmless. Does not require treatment.

Fireworks

Substances

Fireworks contain a variety of substances such as gun powder and various metallic salts, which produce the color effects. Ingesting a small amount of these substances is not dangerous. Ingesting a large amount or severe symptoms requires medical attention.

Flower vase water

Substances

The water in a vase is nontoxic.​

Fly agaric (Amanita muscaria)

Mushrooms

​Fly agaric is poisonous to the central nervous system (CNS). Typical symptoms are fatigue and disorientation resembling alcohol intoxication. Other symptoms are sweating, increased salivation, vomiting and diarrhea.

If the ingested amount is less than 2 cubes of sugar, the patient can be monitored at home. If ingested in greater amounts, seek medical assistance. Contact the Poison Information Center if someone has ingested Fly agaric. Save the mushroom for possible identification afterwards.​

Foreign bodies

Substances

Keywords: Shots, coins, metal objects, plastic objects

Swallowed foreign bodies are considered harmless regarding to toxicity. However, they can cause bowel obstruction.

In case of ingestion, contact your primary healt-care center or other emergency unit for more information.​

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