Spotted dead-nettle Toxic?

Updated 2026-03-06| 3 min read| 2,716 found this helpful

No confirmed human or animal poisoning cases from this species are documented in available scientific literature

Despite lack of toxicity records, the plant is not suitable for use as feed for any companion animals or livestock

The species may be visually confused with related Lamium species or edible Mentha (mint) species

FAQ

Is Spotted dead-nettle toxic to Humans?

No confirmed poisoning symptoms reported in literature to date. Seek immediate medical care if unusual adverse reactions develop after ingestion (Non-toxic)

Is Spotted dead-nettle toxic to Cats?

No confirmed poisoning symptoms reported in literature to date. Contact a veterinarian immediately if unusual adverse reactions develop after ingestion (Non-toxic)

Is Spotted dead-nettle toxic to Dogs?

No confirmed poisoning symptoms reported in literature to date. Contact a veterinarian immediately if unusual adverse reactions develop after ingestion (Non-toxic)

Is Spotted dead-nettle toxic to Horses?

No confirmed poisoning symptoms reported in literature to date. Contact a veterinarian immediately if unusual adverse reactions develop after ingestion (Non-toxic)

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Toxicity Details

Humans

Non-toxic

No confirmed poisoning symptoms reported in literature to date. Seek immediate medical care if unusual adverse reactions develop after ingestion

Cats

Non-toxic

No confirmed poisoning symptoms reported in literature to date. Contact a veterinarian immediately if unusual adverse reactions develop after ingestion

Dogs

Non-toxic

No confirmed poisoning symptoms reported in literature to date. Contact a veterinarian immediately if unusual adverse reactions develop after ingestion

Horses

Non-toxic

No confirmed poisoning symptoms reported in literature to date. Contact a veterinarian immediately if unusual adverse reactions develop after ingestion

Toxicity Snapshot

Toxic PartsNo toxic plant parts have been formally identified; no animal poisoning cases are recorded, but all plant parts are unsuitable for animal feed

Exposure RouteIngestion is the only potential exposure route; no contact or inhalation toxicity has been reported

Toxic CompoundsNo toxic phytochemicals linked to poisoning in this species have been identified to date

First Aid & Prevention

First 30 Minutes

• Remove any remaining plant material from the mouth of the exposed human or animal immediately
• Rinse the mouth thoroughly with clean cool water to eliminate residual plant matter
• Monitor closely for unusual symptoms such as gastrointestinal upset for at least 24 hours post-exposure

Contact Vet Immediately

• If the exposed animal shows signs of gastrointestinal distress (vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain) after ingestion
• If a large quantity of the plant was consumed by a small companion animal, foal or juvenile livestock
• If neurological, respiratory or other severe unusual symptoms develop after exposure

Prevention

• Never harvest or feed spotted dead-nettle to companion animals or livestock as forage
• Label ornamental plantings of this species clearly to avoid accidental harvesting as edible mint or forage
• Remove wild growing plants from pastures and areas accessible to unsupervised pets and livestock

Treatment & Prognosis

• No specific antidote exists; all treatment is supportive and symptom-based
• Administer gastrointestinal protectants if vomiting or diarrhea develops after ingestion
• Provide electrolyte fluid therapy to prevent dehydration if severe gastrointestinal symptoms occur

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Professional Toxicology

Scientific NameLamium maculatum (L.) L.

AliasesSpotted henbit、Purple dragon

Toxicity Grade

HumansNon-toxic

CatsNon-toxic

DogsNon-toxic

HorsesNon-toxic

Target Organs

No specific target organs for toxicity have been identified to date

Mechanism of Action

• No toxic mechanism has been characterized for this species due to lack of recorded poisoning events

Other Species Risk (CliniTox)

Information from CliniTox veterinary text.

Ruminants (cattle, sheep, goats): No poisoning cases recorded, but deliberate feeding as forage is not advised

Small companion mammals (rabbits, guinea pigs): No confirmed toxicity data available; avoid including in regular forage rations

Domestic birds: No adverse consumption events reported, but deliberate feeding is not recommended

Confusion Risk

The following plants look similar and may be confused:

Other Lamium species Lamium spp.

Visually similar in leaf shape and flower structure; most other Lamium species are non-toxic to mildly toxic. Key difference: most related Lamium species lack the distinct silver leaf spot pattern present on L. maculatum

Mint species Mentha spp.

Both belong to the Lamiaceae family, sharing characteristic square stems and ovate leaves; Mentha species are edible and non-toxic. Key difference: Mentha leaves produce a distinct minty aroma when crushed, while L. maculatum has no mint scent

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Related Toxic Plants

Perilla mint

Perilla frutescens

High toxicity for ruminants, horses and companion animals

Ground ivy

Glechoma hederacea

Low to moderate toxicity for horses and cattle when consumed in large quantities

Lanceleaf sage

Salvia reflexa

Moderate toxicity for cattle, sheep and horses

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Data Sources

1. CliniTox (Universität Zürich)

This information is for reference only and does not constitute medical advice. If ingestion or poisoning is suspected, seek medical or veterinary attention immediately.