Sorrel and Autumn Crocus: A Beneficial Herb vs. a Deadly Plant – A Comprehensive Guide on Benefits, Risks, and Confusion Hazards

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In natural medicine, wild plants have played a central role for centuries.
While some plants have healing properties, others can be extremely dangerous—even fatal. A striking example of this contrast is sorrel (Rumex acetosa) and the autumn crocus (Colchicum autumnale). Sorrel is considered a mild medicinal herb, whereas autumn crocus is among the most poisonous plants in Central Europe. Its similarity to edible plants like wild garlic makes it especially risky for foragers and non-experts.

1. Sorrel – A Medicinal Herb That Requires Caution

Healing Properties and Uses

Sorrel is widely used in traditional European medicine and cooking. It grows in moist meadows and forest edges and is easily recognized by its narrow, arrow-shaped leaves, sometimes with reddish spots. Its fresh, tangy taste gives the plant its name.

Medicinal Effects:

  • Diuretic – supports kidney function

  • Blood purifying – thanks to tannins and bitter compounds

  • Digestive aid – stimulates the stomach and bile

  • Immune boosting – used for cold symptoms

  • Topical use – for insect bites, sunburn, and skin irritation

Despite its positive qualities, sorrel contains oxalic acid, which, in high quantities, can inhibit calcium absorption and contribute to kidney problems. Therefore, it should be consumed only in moderation, especially by individuals with kidney issues or gout.

2. Autumn Crocus – A Deadly Poisonous Plant with High Risk of Confusion

Botany and Appearance

The autumn crocus appears harmless at first glance. Its purple, crocus-like flowers bloom in autumn, while its leaves appear in spring—a key trait that causes it to be confused with edible plants like wild garlic or sorrel.

Distinct Features:

  • Leaves: Thick, stiff, often slightly twisted to the left, tapering at the tips

  • Flowers: Purple, crocus-like, typically bloom in September

  • No scent – unlike the garlic-like smell of wild garlic

  • Habitat: Moist meadows, forest edges – often near edible plants

Toxicity

Autumn crocus contains the highly toxic alkaloid colchicine, which is deadly even in small amounts. The seeds have the highest concentration, but all parts of the plant are poisonous to both humans and animals.

Alarmingly: Skin contact alone can be dangerous – colchicine can be absorbed through the skin, for example, when picking flowers with bare hands.

3. Autumn Crocus Poisoning: Symptoms, Progression, and What to Do

A colchicine poisoning progresses in four phases and can become life-threatening within a few hours.

Phases of Poisoning:

Phase 1 (2–6 hours after ingestion):

  • Burning in mouth and throat

  • Thirst, difficulty swallowing

  • Nausea, severe vomiting

Phase 2 (approx. 24 hours later):

  • Colicky abdominal pain

  • Watery, possibly bloody diarrhea

  • Shortness of breath, hallucinations

  • Cramps, paralysis

  • Rapid heartbeat, shock

Phase 3 (from Day 2):

  • Multiple organ failure (heart, liver, kidneys)

  • Toxic bone marrow suppression (impairs immune defense and blood clotting)

Phase 4 (Recovery):

  • Recovery may take weeks or months

  • Possible hair loss after surviving severe poisoning

Emergency Measures:

  • No specific antidote available

  • Activated charcoal may help bind the toxin in the stomach

  • Call a poison control center or doctor immediately

  • Wear gloves when handling the plant to avoid skin absorption

Symptoms Overview (similar to alkaloid poisoning):

  • Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea

  • Confusion, visual disturbances

  • Cramps, paralysis

  • Circulatory collapse, respiratory failure

  • Death in severe cases

4. Confusion Risk: Autumn Crocus, Wild Garlic, and Sorrel

Many wild plants look deceptively similar. The autumn crocus often grows close to wild garlic and sorrel – both edible, but only safe if correctly identified.


 

5. Animal Poisoning and Toxin Persistence

The danger posed by autumn crocus does not end after it blooms – even when dried in hay, colchicine remains active. This makes contaminated animal feed extremely dangerous, especially for grazing animals like cows and horses.

Symptoms in Animals:

  • Colic

  • Apathy

  • Breathing difficulties

  • Circulatory failure

  • Sudden death

6. Alkaloid Poisoning: Effects and Symptoms

Colchicine is part of the group of plant alkaloids that affect the nervous system. Other known toxic alkaloids include biferine, arecoline, and pilocarpine. These substances block enzymes or affect neurotransmitters like acetylcholine, potentially leading to fatal reactions.

General Symptoms of Alkaloid Toxicity:

  • Excessive tearing

  • Severe nausea and vomiting

  • Diarrhea

  • Breathing problems

  • Low heart rate

  • Seizures

  • Confusion or unconsciousness

  • Coma or death

Conclusion: Knowledge Protects – Be Cautious with Wild Plants

Sorrel is a valued wild herb with health benefits—when consumed in moderation and not mistaken for toxic plants. Autumn crocus, however, is a highly poisonous plant with a dangerous resemblance to edible herbs, leading to serious or fatal poisonings every year.

Recommendations for Wild Plant Foragers:

  • Only collect plants you can identify with absolute certainty

  • When in doubt: Don’t pick it

  • After touching unknown plants: Wash hands thoroughly

  • Keep children and pets away from wild plants

  • In case of poisoning: Seek medical help immediately

Sources and Further Reading:

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only. In case of suspected poisoning, contact a medical professional or poison control center immediately.

© 2000-2025 Sieglinde W. Alexander. All writings by Sieglinde W. Alexander have a fife year copy right. Library of Congress Card Number: LCN 00-192742

 

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