Syringa-berry poisoning could be fatal for some animals, harmful to children

THE tall tree with lilac-scented flowers, commonly known as Syringa, is an invasive tree that disrupts vegetation.

Its scientific name is Melia Azedarach, and it is also known as ‘Seringboom’, Cape Lilac or Chinaberry.

What many don’t know about the tree is that the berries are poisonous to some animals.

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The cultivar in South Africa was imported from India as an ornamental plant and is rather pretty with its lilac-scented flowers.

“The tree produces yellow-brown, wrinkled berries which are bitter and contain highly toxic meliatoxins. The bitterness often prevents the consumption of large quantities by animals and children, but even a few berries are toxic to humans, ruminants, horses, pigs and dogs,” says Dr Elzina Boag, Afrivet’s executive of Companion Animals.

“Signs of poisoning include vomiting and salivation in pigs, dogs and children. Severe abdominal pain develops along with diarrhoea and respiratory distress. After these initial signs, nervous system-related symptoms start. These neurological signs include lack of coordination, restlessness, muscle trembling and seizures, leading to coma and death in severe cases,” she added.

Humans usually recover from the poisoning, but monogastric animals are affected more severely, especially dogs and pigs.

Pigs show dilated pupils and become paralysed, after which they remain recumbent, and death follows in two to three days.

“There is no specific treatment for syringa poisoning. Children and dogs can be hospitalised and given supportive treatment, such as intravenous fluids and sedatives to prevent convulsions.  Activated charcoal can be given immediately by mouth to bind toxins before dogs are taken to a veterinary clinic. Treatment like anti-convulsive medications can mitigate the severity of the symptoms,” said the doctor.

Her advice is to rid the area of all Syringa trees and to educate the community about its dangers.

“Communal pig farmers should ensure that there are none of these trees around their farming areas. Education is key as the risk for children is also extremely high,” said Dr Boag.

If you suspect poisoning, consult with your family doctor immediately, especially in cases where children are involved. For dogs, visit your nearest veterinary clinic.

“We urge you to take a look out of your window and identify these trees in your garden, and during the school holidays, especially, this will be an important conversation to have with your children: ‘Stay away from these berries when you play’,” she added.