Heliotropium aegyptiacum

Safety & Hazards

There are reports of livestock being poisoned by eating this plant^[1]. Although no studies on this have been seen, it is likely that pyrrolizidine alkaloids are responsible^[1]. No specific mention of toxicity has been seen for this species, but many members of this plant family (Boraginaceae) are known to contain pyrrolizidine alkaloids. These alkaloids have a cumulative effect upon the body and, unless concentrations in a plant are high, occasional use is generally completely safe. They are derived from amino acids including ornithine. Many pyrrolizidine alkaloids have pronounced hepatic toxicity, but the lungs and other organs may be affected as well. Mutagenic and carcinogenic activities of pyrrolizidine alkaloids have also been reported^[1].