Understanding the Toxicity of Honeysuckle
Many people are drawn to the beautiful, fragrant blossoms of the honeysuckle vine (genus Lonicera) but are unaware of the hidden dangers within. The primary reason you can't eat most varieties of honeysuckle is that their colorful berries and other plant parts are mildly poisonous to humans and pets, containing compounds like saponins. Ingestion can lead to uncomfortable and potentially serious health issues, particularly if consumed in large quantities. The appeal of their sweet-smelling flowers often leads to mistaken foraging, which can have unpleasant consequences.
The Poisonous Parts of Honeysuckle
For the vast majority of honeysuckle species, it's not just the berries that pose a risk. While the berries are the most toxic part, the leaves and stems also contain mild toxins. When ingested, these parts can cause a range of gastrointestinal issues. This is especially true for invasive species like Japanese honeysuckle (Lonicera japonica) and Amur honeysuckle (Lonicera maackii), which are prolific in many parts of the world. It's crucial to understand that even though the nectar from the flowers of some varieties is safe to consume, you should never ingest any other part of the plant unless it is a specifically identified edible species.
Which Honeysuckle Varieties are Edible?
Fortunately, there are a few exceptions to the rule, most notably the group of honeysuckles known as honeyberries (Lonicera caerulea), which are cultivated specifically for their fruit. These berries are edible, look similar to elongated blueberries, and are packed with nutrients. However, this is a significant exception, and unless you are absolutely certain of the plant's variety, you should assume all berries are toxic. Distinguishing between poisonous and edible honeysuckle varieties can be difficult for the untrained eye, making general caution the safest policy.
Symptoms of Honeysuckle Poisoning
Knowing the signs of honeysuckle poisoning is critical, particularly for pet owners and parents of young children who might be curious about the bright berries.
Common symptoms of mild honeysuckle poisoning include:
- Gastrointestinal Distress: Nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea are the most frequently reported symptoms.
- Irregular Heartbeat: In some cases, a rapid or irregular heartbeat can occur, which requires immediate medical attention.
- Dilated Pupils: This can be another symptom indicating toxicity from ingestion.
- Lethargy and Weakness: Mild cases can lead to a general feeling of fatigue and a lack of energy.
For animals, the symptoms can be more severe. All parts of the plant are considered toxic to dogs and cats, leading to symptoms like excessive drooling, lack of appetite, and difficulty breathing in severe cases. If you suspect that a pet or person has consumed a poisonous honeysuckle, seek emergency medical care or contact the nearest poison control center immediately.
A Tale of Two Honeysuckles: Edible vs. Toxic Berries
While the general advice is to avoid honeysuckle berries, the honeyberry (Lonicera caerulea) offers a safe, edible alternative. Here is a comparison to help illustrate the differences and reinforce why identification is key.
| Feature | Toxic Honeysuckle Berries | Edible Honeyberry (Lonicera caerulea) |
|---|---|---|
| Species | Many species, including invasive varieties like Japanese (L. japonica) | Specific cultivars of honeyberry (L. caerulea) |
| Appearance | Typically red, round berries that grow in pairs | Elongated, blue-black fruits with a waxy coating |
| Taste | Often bitter or unpleasant, but appearance can be tempting | Sweet, with a flavor often compared to a mix of blueberries and raspberries |
| Toxicity | Mildly poisonous, causing stomach upset, vomiting, and diarrhea | Safe and delicious when consumed from a known edible variety |
| Growth Habit | Can be invasive vines or shrubs, found wild in many areas | Primarily cultivated as a deciduous shrub, not invasive |
Culinary and Medicinal Uses of Honeysuckle Flowers
Despite the toxicity of its berries, the flowers of some honeysuckle species are perfectly safe to enjoy, primarily for their nectar or when used as an infusion. In traditional medicine, certain honeysuckle flowers have been used for their anti-inflammatory and antiviral properties. The flowers can be steeped to make a sweet, delicate tea or used to create fragrant syrups and jellies. However, it is essential to use a known edible variety and to only consume the nectar or flowers, never the berries.
Conclusion
The simple answer to "Why can't you eat honeysuckle?" is that while some parts of some varieties are safe, most are mildly toxic, and the risk of misidentification is high. The vibrant berries that appear after the flowers are especially dangerous and should never be consumed. Unless you are knowledgeable about plant identification and are certain you have an edible variety like a honeyberry, it is safest to enjoy the beauty and fragrance of honeysuckle in your garden and avoid any temptation to forage for its berries. Always err on the side of caution to prevent illness in yourself, your children, and your pets.
For more detailed information on plant toxicity and poisoning prevention, consult with the experts at your local university extension office or a reputable foraging guide. The Royal Horticultural Society also offers excellent guidance on edible plants, including specific honeysuckle varieties: Edible honeysuckle (honeyberry) / RHS Gardening.
