Published: 10th May, 2024
Context
Following the suspected deaths of a woman and two cattle after consuming Nerium Oleander flowers and leaves, the Travancore Devaswom Board has decided to exclude the flower from prasadas given to devotees.
Description of Oleander Plant:
- Oleander, known as 'Arali' in Malayalam, is an evergreen shrub that can grow 18-20 feet tall and produces fragrant blooms.
- Despite its deadly seeds and other parts, oleander flowers are commonly used in poojas due to their significance.
- Oleander, also known as "the desert rose," has a rich history dating back to ancient Mesopotamians, who believed in its healing benefits and used it as a remedy for hangovers.
- Romans and Arabs also utilized oleander for various health issues.
- Toxicity of Oleander:
- All parts of the oleander plant, including flowers, leaves, stem, and roots, contain toxic compounds called cardiac glycosides.
- Ingesting oleander can lead to severe health issues such as nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, irregular heart rhythm, and even death in severe cases.
- Medical Uses and Potential Benefits:
- Oleander contains oleandrin and nerioside, which have effects similar to digitalis, a medication used to treat heart conditions. Some studies suggest oleander extracts may have anti-cancer properties and be effective against asthma, epilepsy, malaria, and other ailments.
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