Is Black false hellebore toxic to humans?
Black false hellebore is highly toxic, with all parts of the plant containing toxic compounds. The highest concentration is present in the rhizome. Consuming just 0.6 g of black false hellebore has previously resulted in death. If eaten, irritation of the mucous membranes, vomiting, and diarrhoea, will likely follow. A slower heart rate, lower blood pressure, headaches and lightheadedness, confusion, blurred vision, and excessive sweating are also common side effects of ingestion. In the more severe cases, it may lead to heart abnormalities, muscle cramps and twitching, sharp pains across the whole body, seizures, weakness, unconsciousness and death. If inhaled through the nose, the irritation to the skin will cause sneezing and coughing. It can also cause contact dermatitis if applied topically.