What are the potential uses of oleander. How can oleander affect the heart. What are the risks associated with oleander consumption. Is oleander safe for medicinal use. How does oleander interact with medications. What precautions should be taken with oleander.

The Nature and Composition of Oleander

Oleander (Nerium oleander) is a flowering shrub known for its vibrant blossoms and evergreen foliage. While visually appealing, this plant harbors a dark secret within its leaves, flowers, and seeds. Oleander contains potent cardiac glycosides, chemical compounds that can have profound effects on the heart. These substances are capable of slowing heart rate and, in sufficient quantities, can prove fatal.

The primary active compounds in oleander include:

• Oleandrin
• Neriine
• Digitoxigenin
• Oleandroside

These cardiac glycosides are structurally similar to digoxin, a medication used to treat certain heart conditions. However, the concentration and potency of these compounds in oleander make it far too dangerous for casual or uncontrolled use.

Potential Medicinal Applications of Oleander

Despite its toxicity, oleander has piqued the interest of researchers for its potential medicinal properties. Some areas of investigation include:

Cancer Treatment

Can oleander compounds be used to fight cancer? Some studies have shown that certain oleander extracts may have cytotoxic effects on cancer cells. However, these findings are preliminary and require extensive further research before any clinical applications can be considered.

Cardiac Conditions

Given its effects on heart rate, could oleander be used to treat heart conditions? While the plant’s cardiac glycosides do impact heart function, the narrow therapeutic window and high risk of toxicity make it unsuitable for cardiac treatment in its natural form.

Anti-inflammatory Properties

Does oleander have anti-inflammatory effects? Some research suggests that oleander extracts may possess anti-inflammatory properties. However, the risks associated with oleander use far outweigh any potential benefits in this area, especially when safer alternatives exist.

The Dangers of Oleander Consumption

Why is oleander considered so dangerous? The toxicity of oleander cannot be overstated. All parts of the plant contain cardiac glycosides that can cause severe poisoning when ingested. Even small amounts can lead to serious health complications or death.

Symptoms of oleander poisoning may include:

• Nausea and vomiting
• Dizziness and confusion
• Irregular heartbeat
• Low blood pressure
• Visual disturbances
• Seizures

In severe cases, oleander poisoning can result in cardiac arrest and death. The risk is particularly high for children and pets, who may be attracted to the plant’s colorful flowers or leaves.

Oleander and Skin Contact Risks

Is it safe to touch oleander? While not as dangerous as ingestion, skin contact with oleander can also pose risks. The sap of the plant can cause skin irritation, rashes, and allergic reactions in some individuals. When handling oleander, it’s essential to wear protective gloves and avoid any contact with eyes or mucous membranes.

If skin contact occurs, thoroughly wash the affected area with soap and water. If irritation persists or if any of the sap enters the eyes, seek medical attention immediately.

Oleander Interactions with Medications

How does oleander interact with common medications? The cardiac glycosides in oleander can interact dangerously with various medications, particularly those that affect heart function. Some critical interactions include:

Digoxin

Taking oleander along with digoxin can amplify the effects of both substances, potentially leading to severe cardiac complications. This combination should be strictly avoided.

Antibiotics

Certain antibiotics may increase the absorption of oleander compounds in the body, heightening the risk of toxicity. It’s crucial to avoid any oleander consumption while on antibiotic treatment.

Diuretics

Diuretics, or “water pills,” can lower potassium levels in the body. Combined with oleander’s effects on the heart, this can increase the risk of cardiac arrhythmias.

Laxatives

Similar to diuretics, stimulant laxatives can decrease potassium levels, potentially exacerbating oleander’s cardiac effects.

Given these interactions, it’s crucial to inform healthcare providers about any potential exposure to oleander, especially if you’re taking medications that affect heart function.

Precautions and Safety Measures

What precautions should be taken regarding oleander? Given its high toxicity, extreme caution is necessary when dealing with oleander:

• Never ingest any part of the oleander plant or products derived from it
• Keep oleander plants out of reach of children and pets
• Wear protective gear when handling oleander
• Avoid burning oleander, as the smoke can be toxic
• Be cautious of products that may contain oleander extracts

If oleander poisoning is suspected, seek immediate medical attention. Time is critical in treating oleander toxicity, and prompt medical intervention can be life-saving.

Legal and Regulatory Status of Oleander

What is the legal status of oleander and its derivatives? The regulatory status of oleander varies by country and jurisdiction. In many areas, the plant itself is not regulated and is commonly used in landscaping. However, the sale and distribution of oleander-derived products for medicinal or supplemental use are often strictly controlled or prohibited due to safety concerns.

In the United States, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has not approved any oleander-based products for medical use. The agency has issued warnings about the dangers of oleander and has taken action against companies marketing oleander-derived supplements.

Internationally, the regulatory landscape is similarly cautious. The European Medicines Agency (EMA) and other global health authorities have not endorsed oleander for medicinal use and generally warn against its consumption.

Oleander in Historical and Cultural Contexts

How has oleander been perceived and used throughout history? Despite its toxicity, oleander has played various roles in different cultures throughout history:

Ancient Medicine

In some ancient medical traditions, oleander was used as a treatment for various ailments, including skin diseases and tumors. However, its use was often accompanied by warnings about its potency and potential for harm.

Symbolic Meanings

In some cultures, oleander has symbolic significance. It has been associated with concepts like caution, danger, and even destiny in various literary and artistic works.

Landscaping and Decoration

Oleander’s drought resistance and beautiful flowers have made it a popular choice for landscaping in warm climates, particularly in Mediterranean and subtropical regions.

While these historical and cultural uses are interesting from an academic perspective, they should not be taken as endorsements of oleander’s safety or efficacy for any purpose.

Alternatives to Oleander in Medicine and Landscaping

What are safer alternatives to oleander for various purposes? Given the risks associated with oleander, it’s important to consider safer alternatives:

Medicinal Alternatives

For any condition where oleander might be considered, there are always safer, clinically proven alternatives available. These could include FDA-approved medications, dietary changes, or other evidence-based treatments. Always consult with a healthcare professional for proper medical advice.

Landscaping Alternatives

For those seeking plants with similar aesthetic qualities to oleander but without the associated risks, consider:

• Rhododendrons
• Azaleas
• Camellias
• Crape myrtles

These plants can provide similar visual appeal without the dangers of oleander toxicity.

Research Perspectives on Oleander

What is the current state of oleander research? Despite its dangers, oleander continues to be a subject of scientific interest:

Cancer Research

Some studies are exploring the potential of modified oleander compounds in cancer treatment. These investigations aim to harness the cytotoxic properties of oleander while minimizing its cardiac effects.

Pharmacological Studies

Research is ongoing to better understand the pharmacological properties of oleander compounds and their potential applications in drug development.

Toxicology Research

Continued research into oleander toxicity helps improve treatment protocols for poisoning cases and enhances our understanding of cardiac glycoside effects.

It’s important to note that this research is conducted in controlled laboratory settings by trained professionals. Under no circumstances should individuals attempt to self-experiment with oleander or its derivatives.

Environmental Impact and Ecological Role of Oleander

What role does oleander play in ecosystems? As a hardy and adaptable plant, oleander has significant ecological implications:

Invasive Potential

In some regions, oleander can become invasive, outcompeting native species and altering local ecosystems. Its drought resistance and rapid growth can make it difficult to control once established.

Wildlife Interactions

While toxic to many animals, some insects have evolved to tolerate oleander toxins. The oleander hawk-moth, for instance, feeds on oleander leaves and has developed resistance to its poisons.

Soil Stabilization

In areas prone to erosion, oleander’s extensive root system can help stabilize soil. However, this benefit must be weighed against the potential ecological disruption caused by introducing a non-native species.

Understanding oleander’s ecological role is crucial for managing its presence in both urban and natural environments.

The Future of Oleander Research and Utilization

What might the future hold for oleander in science and society? While oleander’s toxicity makes it unlikely to become a widely used medicinal plant, ongoing research may yield valuable insights:

Drug Development

Continued study of oleander compounds could lead to the development of new drugs, particularly in the realm of cancer treatment. These would likely be highly modified versions of natural oleander compounds, designed to maximize beneficial effects while minimizing toxicity.

Biotechnology Applications

The unique properties of oleander may find applications in biotechnology. For example, the plant’s ability to tolerate drought and poor soil conditions could be studied to develop more resilient crops.

Public Health and Safety

As urban areas expand and landscaping practices evolve, there may be increased focus on replacing oleander in public spaces with safer alternatives. This could lead to new guidelines for public landscaping in regions where oleander is common.

While these potential developments are intriguing, it’s crucial to maintain a cautious approach to oleander. The plant’s beauty and potential should never overshadow the very real dangers it poses.

Overview, Uses, Side Effects, Precautions, Interactions, Dosing and Reviews

Overview

Oleander (Nerium oleander) is a flowering shrub. It contains chemicals called toxic cardiac glycosides, which can lead to death when consumed.

The cardiac glycosides in oleander affect the heart. These chemicals can slow the heart rate down. Some of these chemicals might also kill cancer cells.

People use oleander for heart failure, cancer, epilepsy, and many other conditions, but there is no good scientific evidence to support these uses. There is also no good evidence to support using oleander for COVID-19. Oleander is unsafe to use.

Uses & Effectiveness ?

We currently have no information for OLEANDER overview.

Side Effects

When taken by mouth: Oleander is likely unsafe. Consuming oleander leaf, oleander leaf tea, or oleander seed has led to deadly poisonings.

When applied to the skin: Oleander is possibly unsafe. It can be absorbed into the body and cause serious side effects. Touching oleander sap can cause a rash.

Special Precautions and Warnings

When taken by mouth: Oleander is likely unsafe. Consuming oleander leaf, oleander leaf tea, or oleander seed has led to deadly poisonings.

When applied to the skin: Oleander is possibly unsafe. It can be absorbed into the body and cause serious side effects. Touching oleander sap can cause a rash.

Pregnancy and breast-feeding: Taking oleander by mouth is likely unsafe while pregnant or breast-feeding. It might cause an abortion or cause birth defects. There isn’t enough reliable information to know if oleander is safe to apply to the skin. Stay on the safe side and avoid use.

Children: Oleander is likely unsafe when taken by mouth. Taking the oleander leaf, oleander leaf tea, or oleander seed has led to deadly poisonings.

Interactions ?

Major Interaction

Do not take this combination

• Taking some antibiotics might increase how much oleander the body absorbs. This might increase the effects and side effects of oleander.

• Taking some antibiotics might increase how much oleander the body absorbs. This might increase the effects and side effects of oleander.

• Digoxin helps the heart beat more strongly. Oleander also seems to affect the heart. Taking oleander along with digoxin can increase the effects of digoxin and might cause serious heart problems. Do not take oleander if you are taking digoxin without talking to your health care professional.

• Quinine might increase the amount of oleander the body absorbs. Taking quinine along with oleander might cause serious heart problems.

• Oleander might affect the heart. Stimulant laxatives can cause diarrhea and decrease potassium levels. Low potassium levels can also affect the heart. Taking these products together can increase the risk of side effects.

• Oleander might affect the heart. “Water pills” can decrease potassium levels. Low potassium levels can also affect the heart. Taking these products together can increase the risk of side effects.

Moderate Interaction

Be cautious with this combination

• Oleander might affect the heart. Some medications for inflammation can decrease potassium in the body. Low potassium levels can also affect the heart. Taking these products together can increase the risk of side effects.

Dosing

There isn’t enough reliable information to know what an appropriate dose of oleander might be. Oleander can also be unsafe. Speak with a healthcare provider before using.

View References

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CONDITIONS OF USE AND IMPORTANT INFORMATION: This information is meant to supplement, not replace advice from your doctor or healthcare provider and is not meant to cover all possible uses, precautions, interactions or adverse effects. This information may not fit your specific health circumstances. Never delay or disregard seeking professional medical advice from your doctor or other qualified health care provider because of something you have read on WebMD. You should always speak with your doctor or health care professional before you start, stop, or change any prescribed part of your health care plan or treatment and to determine what course of therapy is right for you.

This copyrighted material is provided by Natural Medicines Comprehensive Database Consumer Version. Information from this source is evidence-based and objective, and without commercial influence. For professional medical information on natural medicines, see Natural Medicines Comprehensive Database Professional Version.
© Therapeutic Research Faculty 2020.

Health Benefits, Side Effects, Uses, Dose & Precautions

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home care, photos, varieties, transplantation, diseases and pests of the flower

Oleander is a member of the Apocynaceae family – it is a relative of such houseplants as adenium, hoya and plumeria, as well as the popular garden periwinkle. There is only one species in the genus oleander – the common oleander (Nerium oleander). It is he who is actively used in the landscaping of subtropical cities. And it is ideal for growing at home.

It is an evergreen shrub with narrow leaves up to 3.5 m high. Depending on the climate, it flowers from June to October.

Oleander varieties

Many varieties of oleander have been bred, which differ in petal color and flower structure – they can be single or double. And some varieties also have variegated leaves.

Variegata oleander. Photo: pixabay.com

The most popular of them:

• Variegata – with pink terry very fragrant flowers and variegated leaves;
• Cardinal – plain burgundy;
• Casablanca – with large white flowers;
• Mont Blanc – also with white flowers, but it blooms much more abundantly;
• Rigoletto – with pale pink double flowers and petals twisted in the center;
• Triumph – double mauve flowers;
• Fouret – with double pale pink flowers;
• Ceriza – I double bright crimson flowers;
• Emilie Salut – with pink flowers collected in large inflorescences, blooms very profusely.

Caring for oleander at home

Photo: alfauzikri, pexels.com

In general, oleander is unpretentious, it will delight with beautiful foliage and abundant flowering for many years, but it is important to provide it with suitable conditions from the very beginning.

Soil

Oleander can be grown in commercial flowering soil. But it is better to prepare the soil yourself. The ideal option is a mixture of soddy soil, humus, peat and sand in a ratio of 1:1:1:1.

Temperature

This shrub is very thermophilic, in the season of active growth, that is, from April to September, it needs to provide 28 – 30 °C. But in winter, he loves coolness, the optimum temperature from October to March is 8 – 15 ° C.

Lighting

Oleander loves the sun, it is best to grow on a southern window, he is not afraid of direct sunlight. In summer, it is useful to put the plant outside.

Humidity

Oleander is able to put up with the dry air of urban apartments, but if it is sprayed from time to time, he will be grateful. On hot days, it is useful to put trays of water next to the plant – evaporating, it will humidify the air around.

But oleander is more scrupulous about watering – it does not tolerate drying out of the soil. Experiments have shown that with a decrease in soil moisture to 35% of the total moisture capacity, after 48 hours, the oleander begins to shed its leaves (1). Therefore, from April to October, it is necessary to water the plant often and abundantly – as soon as the top layer of soil dries. And if it spilled into the pan, let it stay there – it will not harm the roots. In winter, watering should be moderate.

Fertilizers

If you plant oleander in purchased soil, you do not need to add fertilizers there – they are already there. If you prepared it yourself, put complex mineral fertilizer in it according to the instructions.

Top dressing

During the period of active growth, that is, from April to September, the oleander should be fed every 2 weeks with a liquid complex fertilizer. In April-May, these dressings can be alternated with mullein infusion.

Cutting

Oleanders grow very quickly, the stalk planted in the ground can grow up to 70 cm in the first year. Later on, the intensity of growth decreases every year, but even in adults, 25-year-old bushes, the growth is 15-20 cm (2) . Moreover, the oleander tends to give long unbranched shoots. Therefore, they need to be constantly trimmed.

Every year in the spring, all branches should be shortened by 1/3. And once every 5 years, cut half of the shoots from the crown – this helps to rejuvenate the bush.

Propagation of oleander at home

There are 2 ways to propagate oleander.

Cuttings. This is the simplest and fastest, besides, it will allow you to save varietal characteristics. For propagation, cuttings are taken from the tops of young shoots 15 cm long. They can simply be put in water and usually they give roots in a week. Then they can be planted in a pot.

By the way, cuttings can be cut during a vacation in the south, put in a plastic bottle with water, screw on the lid and bring home. Often, while you are resting, they already have time to give roots.

Seeds. This method allows you to get many plants at once, but they do not retain varietal characteristics. But it may turn out to be an interesting hybrid and, perhaps, you will become the author of an unusual oleander.

Before sowing, it is useful to disinfect the seeds in a strong solution of potassium permanganate. It is better to sow them in plastic containers, in sand with the addition of charcoal to a depth of 0. 5 cm. After sowing, moisten the soil and cover the container with a lid.

Seeds germinate at a temperature of 33 – 35 ° C, seedlings usually appear on the 7th – 10th day.

Seedlings need plenty of light. But the temperature must be reduced to 18 ° C. When 2 true leaves appear, they can be planted in pots.

Repotting oleander at home

Photo: Maria Breuer, globallookpress.com

Young oleanders need to be repotted annually. Adult specimens – 1 time in 2 – 3 years. In large bushes that grow in tubs, it is enough to change the topsoil annually.

The best time to transplant is early spring.

Diseases of oleander

Oleanders are very resistant plants, they rarely get sick. In humid conditions at low temperatures, they are usually affected by only one disease.

Powdery mildew. It manifests itself in the form of a white coating on the leaves – they seem to be sprinkled with flour.

The disease can be cured with Quadris, Prevent, Strobi or Thiovit Jet (3).

Oleander pests

Photo: Christian Hütter, globallookpress.com

But pests love this plant very much. And most often they attack the oleander when it is taken out into the street.

Spider mite. It infects plants in dry air and high temperatures. First, numerous small whitish dots appear on the leaves. And with a strong defeat, the plant is covered with cobwebs.

Kleshchevit or Fitoverm can be used to control spider mites (3). For reliability, the treatment must be repeated after 2 weeks.

Aphid. She prefers juicy young shoots.

With a small population, the plant is enough to wash 2 – 3 times with a solution of laundry soap. In case of mass reproduction of the pest, Actellik and Fitoverm preparations are used (3).

Mealybug. Signs of the pest – a wax coating on the leaves, similar to cotton balls.

For minor infestations, it is sufficient to wash the plant under a soapy shower. With a strong use of drugs Aktara or Aktellik (3).

Shield. Small insects that live on shoots and leaves. They look like oval tubercles – these are shields that protect the pest from enemies. Dealing with scale insects is not easy; a systematic approach is needed here.

The first step is to carefully wipe all the leaves and shoots with a cotton pad soaked in alcohol. Then wash the plant with soapy water. And then treat with Actellik or Fitoverm (3).

Popular questions and answers

We talked about growing oleander at home with agronomist-breeder Svetlana Mikhailova.

Is it true that oleander is poisonous?

True, and its toxicity is high. If the juice of this plant enters the digestive tract, you are guaranteed diarrhea and vomiting, and in large doses it can cause cardiac arrest.

It is for this reason that oleander is not recommended to grow in an apartment if there are small children and animals at home – it is also deadly for cats and dogs.

Wash hands thoroughly with soap and water after handling oleander.

How to choose an oleander?

It is important that the plant looks healthy with clean shiny leaves. Check it carefully for pests – they love to settle on the oleander.

What kind of pot is needed for an oleander?

Oleander grows very fast, so choose a large pot for it. And preferably ceramic – plastic ones can tip over when the bush grows a large mass.

Why doesn’t the oleander bloom?

The most common cause is lack of lighting. Oleander is very photophilous!

The second reason is that the bush was not cut. If it grows with a “stick”, in one trunk, you are unlikely to wait for flowers. This is where pruning will help.

And, of course, it will not bloom if it is sick or infested with pests.

Why do oleander leaves fall off?

The most obvious reason is lack of moisture. Oleander is very sensitive to drought. It is worth not watering it once in time – it immediately sheds leaves.

And, of course, the leaves will fall if the plant is sick.

Sources

1. Korsakova S.P., Plugatar Yu.V., Ilnitsky O.A., Kleiman E.I. Features of the water exchange of Nerium oleander L. in conditions of progressive soil drought // South of Russia: ecology, development, vol. 13, no. 1, 2018
   URL: https://cyberleninka.ru/article/n/osobennosti-vodnogo-obmena-nerium-oleander-l-v-usloviyah-progressiruyuschey-pochvennoy-zasuhi
2. Spotar E.N. Biological features of the growth and development of shoots of Nerium oleander L. in the conditions of the Southern coast of Crimea // Biology of plants and gardening: theory, innovations, 2014 URL: https://cyberleninka.ru/article/n/biologicheskie-osobennosti-rosta-i-razvitiya -pobegov-nerium-oleander-l-v-usloviyah-yuzhnogo-berega-kryma
3. State Catalog of Pesticides and Agrochemicals Permitted for Use on the Territory of the Russian Federation as of July 6, 2021 // Ministry of Agriculture of the Russian Federation
   URL: https://mcx. gov.ru/ministry/departments/departament-rastenievodstva-mekhanizatsii-khimizatsii-i-zashchity-rasteniy/industry-information/info-gosudarstvennaya-usluga-po-gosudarstvennoy-registratsii-pestitsidov-i -agrokhimikatov/

The benefits and harms of oleander. Contraindications. How to store oleander

Oleander is an evergreen shrub with densely strewn narrow deep green leaves. The plant reaches 3 meters in height. Its stems are covered with smooth gray bark. Its flowers, regardless of variety, always have five petals. In color, they are red, yellow, white pink, or have many different shades. The flowering period of the oleander is June-October. The fruits ripen in late autumn. During the flowering of the oleander, a pleasant aroma is felt. Oleander appeared simultaneously in China and Morocco, but has been engaged in this plant all over the world for many years. It is grown both indoors and outdoors. The plant is unpretentious, so absolutely everyone can master it. We must not forget that the oleander is poisonous, so it should be grown only in well-ventilated areas where there are no animals and children. But in addition to the poisonousness of the plant and its bad effect on the human condition, it is also famous for many useful properties that are used for medical purposes.

Benefits of oleander

For the preparation of many medicines, substances contained in oleander are used: digitalin, carobin, saponin, ursolic acid and others. These drugs have a positive effect on the liver, immunity and cardiovascular system. They also dilate blood vessels and normalize the work of the muscles of the heart. Previously, drugs prepared from the leaves of the plant were produced: Kornerin, Neriolin. They treated the lack of blood, problems with the liver, lungs. But due to the toxicity of the drugs, their production was stopped.

Oleander is also used in folk medicine. Professionals who are well versed in herbs advise preparations, solutions based on oleander parts for headaches, cramps, poor sleep, and decreased performance. For external use, oleander solutions are useful for fungal skin diseases. You can prepare medicinal preparations, ointments, solutions based on oleander parts on your own, following the instructions of the recipe.

Important! Do not treat yourself with oleander: be sure to consult a specialist before using it!

Leaf tincture

Ingredients:

• leaves – 10;
• alcohol – 100 ml.

Preparation: after drying the leaves, soak them in alcohol. You need to insist ten days in a glass closed container, in a shaded room. Shake the container from time to time. Strain after insisting.

Application: use this solution for pain in the head, muscles, vomiting, diarrhea, nervous disorders. Before use, mix 2 drops of tincture with boiled water (100 ml). You can also use the tincture as a compress for skin diseases. It is necessary to be treated with tincture for 10 days.

Oleander treatment solution

Ingredients:

• finely chopped oleander leaves – 1 tsp;
• boiling water – 0. 5 l.

Preparation: Pour the leaves into boiling water, infuse the solution for about an hour, then strain.

Application: use this tincture for pain in the head, teeth, nervous disorders, neuritis, poor circulation. You need to take 1 tbsp three times a day. half an hour before meals.

Flower-based ointment

Ingredients:

• flowers – 1/3;
• vaseline or baby cream – 1/5.

Preparation: mix cream or vaseline with crushed flowers, rub. Make a water bath in which you cook the infusion for about 15 minutes. Cool the mixture and stir well.

Preparation:

Use this ointment for dermatitis, fungal skin diseases and insect bites. Twice a day it is necessary to rub the ointment on the damaged area.

Oleander storage

The leaves of the plant are the most beneficial. They need to be collected in early spring or at the end of autumn, when the shoots no longer grow. The leaves must be sorted out and dried at 50-60 ° C. In order to dry the leaves, spread them on a dry cloth that absorbs moisture well, and take them out into the open air, in a shady place. It is recommended to store them in a room where there is absolutely no light, in a dry place. When cutting leaves from a plant, remember that it contains poison and wear gloves and a mask. After collecting the required number of leaves, wash your hands well.

Use of oleander

Most often, the plant is used for decorative purposes, planted at home, grown in flowerpots indoors, on a balcony or in the yard. The flower is also actively used by landscape designers, who decorate gardens and parks with it. When planting an oleander indoors, you need to think carefully, because the plant is not only beautifully flowering and smells good, but also dangerous to human health due to the content of toxic substances. You can not sleep next to the oleander, plant it where there are children, animals. Also, in no case should you heat a fireplace or stove with a plant, because.