Alicia Silverstone’s Close Call with a Poisonous Berry

Alicia Silverstone recently caused a bit of alarm among fans when she posted a TikTok video of herself tasting a poisonous berry she found while on a trip to England. In the clip, the “Clueless” actor mistakenly believed the fruit to be a tomato, only to discover its unpleasant flavor after a few bites.

The berry Silverstone sampled is known as a Jerusalem cherry, a member of the nightshade family that includes tomatoes, eggplants, and potatoes. While the fruits of these plants are safe to eat, their foliage can be toxic. It’s always important to be cautious and never consume anything unless you’re absolutely certain it’s safe.

Jerusalem cherries are particularly harmful, with all parts of the plant being poisonous to humans, as well as dogs, cats, and horses. Consuming unripe berries can lead to severe symptoms such as delirium, abdominal pain, vomiting, and even paralysis. In extreme cases, ingestion can be fatal.

Other plants with toxic lookalikes include the Carolina horsenettle, deadly nightshade, and wild onion and garlic grasses, among others. Mistaking these plants for safe options can have serious consequences, from sun sensitivity to respiratory failure.

If you suspect you’ve ingested a toxic plant, contact a poison control center immediately. Remember, it’s better to be safe than sorry when it comes to foraging for wild foods.

Stay Informed

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