Fatal Mistakes in Foraging: Why Proper Plant Identification is Key to Avoiding Poisonous Wild Garlic and Other Toxic Species in Israel

In Israel, while wild garlic is not native to the country, there are other species of garlic that can be found. However, the confusion between poisonous plants and edible ones has led to dangerous situations in the past. Avivit Berkovich, an expert in collecting wild plants for food and medicine, emphasizes the importance of correctly identifying plants before consuming them.

Berkovich has seen cases where people have mistakenly identified plants or did not know how to use them properly, which could have ended disastrously. One such case involved a two-year-old child who ate toxic ‘cherry tomatoes’ that were actually a different plant. Berkovich explains that hemlock can be confused with edible parsley as they belong to the same family. Hemlock contains a toxin that can disrupt the nervous system and lead to respiratory arrest.

Another incident Berkovich recounts is when a woman experienced paralysis after coming into contact with hemlock while cleaning her garden. The woman did not realize she was touching a poisonous plant and paid a heavy price for her mistake. This highlights the importance of educating oneself on different plant species and their characteristics before venturing out into nature to forage for wild plants.

In conclusion, being cautious when collecting wild plants is crucial to avoid potentially dangerous situations. Proper identification and knowledge of how to use them safely are essential tools for anyone interested in exploring nature’s offerings. It’s important to study the topic thoroughly before embarking on any foraging expedition to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.