PlantFunMediterranean cypress Toxic?
All plant parts are toxic; contact with wood dust, cut branches, or burnt plant smoke causes contact dermatitis and asthma attacks
Ingestion of large amounts leads to gastrointestinal distress, seizures, coma, and permanent liver/kidney damage
No specific antidote exists; seek immediate medical or toxicology center support after exposure or suspected ingestion
FAQ
Is Mediterranean cypress toxic to Humans?
Contact dermatitis from cut branches, wood dust, or burnt plant smoke; asthma attacks; cross-allergy to rosin is common. Ingestion of large quantities causes gastrointestinal symptoms including bloody vomiting, tonic-clonic seizures, coma, liver and kidney damage (Moderate)
Is Mediterranean cypress toxic to Cats?
No specific toxicity data available for this species; consult a veterinarian immediately if ingestion is suspected (Unknown)
Is Mediterranean cypress toxic to Dogs?
No specific toxicity data available for this species; consult a veterinarian immediately if ingestion is suspected (Unknown)
Is Mediterranean cypress toxic to Horses?
No specific toxicity data available for this species; consult a veterinarian immediately if ingestion is suspected (Unknown)
Toxicity Details
Contact dermatitis from cut branches, wood dust, or burnt plant smoke; asthma attacks; cross-allergy to rosin is common. Ingestion of large quantities causes gastrointestinal symptoms including bloody vomiting, tonic-clonic seizures, coma, liver and kidney damage
No specific toxicity data available for this species; consult a veterinarian immediately if ingestion is suspected
No specific toxicity data available for this species; consult a veterinarian immediately if ingestion is suspected
No specific toxicity data available for this species; consult a veterinarian immediately if ingestion is suspected
Toxicity Snapshot
First Aid & Prevention
First 30 Minutes
- • For ingestion: Administer activated charcoal suspension/powder at 1g/kg body weight within 1-2 hours of ingestion, only if the patient is conscious
- • For skin contact: Rinse affected area thoroughly with cool soapy water to reduce dermatitis risk
- • For inhalation of dust/smoke: Move to fresh air immediately, monitor for breathing difficulties
Contact Vet Immediately
- • Suspected ingestion of any amount of the plant by cats, dogs, or horses
- • Development of skin rashes, respiratory distress, seizures, or bloody vomiting after exposure
- • Exposure in children, elderly, or immunocompromised individuals
Prevention
- • Wear gloves, long sleeves, and a respiratory mask when cutting or handling the plant, or working with its wood
- • Do not burn cypress plant material, avoid inhaling any smoke from burnt cypress
- • Keep plant parts out of reach of children and pets
Treatment & Prognosis
- • Consult a doctor or toxicology center immediately after ingestion for further clinical guidance
- • No specific antidote is available, treatment is fully supportive based on presented symptoms
- • Manage allergic reactions with antihistamines or corticosteroids as directed by a healthcare provider
Professional Toxicology
• Thujone and other active compounds irritate skin and respiratory mucosa on contact or inhalation
• Ingestion of large quantities causes systemic toxicity affecting gastrointestinal, nervous, hepatic and renal systems
• Cross-allergic reactions occur in individuals sensitized to rosin
Information from CliniTox veterinary text.
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Data Sources
This information is for reference only and does not constitute medical advice. If ingestion or poisoning is suspected, seek medical or veterinary attention immediately.