BBC Gardeners’ World Magazine Podcast cover image

BBC Gardeners’ World Magazine Podcast

Dangerous Plants - Plants that Kill and Cure

Oct 9, 2024
Dr. Sarah Edwards, Plant Records Officer at the University of Oxford Botanic Garden and an ethnobotanist, dives into the fascinating world of dangerous plants. She reveals how species like cannabis and yew wield both healing powers and risks. The discussion explores the vital role of traditional knowledge in modern medicine, highlighting the Madagascar periwinkle's contributions to diabetes and cancer treatments. Additionally, she addresses ethical concerns over the exploitation of indigenous plant knowledge and the need for sustainable interactions with nature.
45:05

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Quick takeaways

  • Many toxic plants have significant medicinal properties, exemplified by the yew tree, which contains potent anti-cancer compounds despite its dangers.
  • The over-exploitation of medicinal plants due to demand threatens biodiversity and local communities, emphasizing the need for sustainable harvesting practices.

Deep dives

The Dual Nature of Poisonous Plants

Some plants are known for their dual properties of being both poisonous and medicinal. For example, the yew tree, revered for its longevity and history, contains toxic compounds in every part of the plant but is also a source of the anti-cancer drug paclitaxel, which originally was harvested unsustainably from its bark. This highlights how certain toxic plants can provide significant health benefits when appropriately processed and extracted, though sustainable practices remain critical to prevent depletion of these valuable natural resources. Additionally, the Madagascar periwinkle initially was observed for its role in traditional medicine, leading to successful anti-cancer treatments when its toxic compounds were identified and utilized.

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