PlantFunMaidenhair Tree Toxic?
Only the seeds of Ginkgo biloba are confirmed toxic, containing the harmful compound ginkgotoxin
Ginkgotoxin acts as a vitamin B6 antagonist, disrupting normal nervous system function
Consumption of raw unprocessed seeds may trigger severe epileptiform seizures in affected individuals
FAQ
Is Maidenhair Tree toxic to Humans?
Epileptiform seizures (Moderate)
Is Maidenhair Tree toxic to Cats?
No confirmed toxicity data available; monitor for seizure-like activity, lethargy, or disorientation if seeds are ingested (Unknown)
Is Maidenhair Tree toxic to Dogs?
No confirmed toxicity data available; monitor for seizure-like activity, lethargy, or disorientation if seeds are ingested (Unknown)
Is Maidenhair Tree toxic to Horses?
No confirmed toxicity data available; monitor for seizure-like activity, lethargy, or disorientation if seeds are ingested (Unknown)
Toxicity Details
Epileptiform seizures
No confirmed toxicity data available; monitor for seizure-like activity, lethargy, or disorientation if seeds are ingested
No confirmed toxicity data available; monitor for seizure-like activity, lethargy, or disorientation if seeds are ingested
No confirmed toxicity data available; monitor for seizure-like activity, lethargy, or disorientation if seeds are ingested
Toxicity Snapshot
First Aid & Prevention
First 30 Minutes
- • If ingestion occurred within the past 2 hours and the affected individual is conscious, induce vomiting to remove unabsorbed seeds
- • Administer activated charcoal to bind remaining toxin in the gastrointestinal tract
- • Move the individual to a quiet, low-light area to reduce risk of seizure triggers
Contact Vet Immediately
- • Any seizure activity is observed, regardless of duration
- • A child, pet, or individual with pre-existing seizure disorders ingests any amount of ginkgo seeds
- • Lethargy, disorientation, or vomiting persists for more than 1 hour after ingestion
Prevention
- • Never consume raw or unprocessed ginkgo seeds; only use commercially prepared ginkgo leaf supplements from reputable sources
- • Rake up and safely dispose of fallen ginkgo seeds to prevent accidental ingestion by children or pets
- • Clearly label ginkgo trees on residential or public property to warn of toxic seed risk
Treatment & Prognosis
- • Perform gastrointestinal decontamination via emesis, activated charcoal, or gastric lavage as appropriate for ingestion timing
- • Administer therapeutic doses of vitamin B6 to counteract ginkgotoxin's antagonistic effects
- • Provide symptomatic care including anticonvulsant medication and seizure monitoring as needed
Professional Toxicology
• Ginkgotoxin is structurally related to vitamin B6 (pyridoxine), acting as a vitamin antagonist that disrupts B6-dependent neurological functions, leading to seizure onset
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.