The whole plant is highly toxic and contains cardiac glycosides (cardenolides such as adonitoxin and cymarin).
Just a little more than 2 g of leaves causes poisoning similar to digitalis (Digitalis = Thimble). Ingestion causes irritation in the gastrointestinal tract. The ingredients cause the coronary arteries to expand, increase water excretion and have a calming effect.
The plant is used in medicine for mild cases of heart failure and heart problems without a diagnosed organic cause.
The action is similar to Red Thimble (Digitalis purpurea), but weaker and less long-lasting.
Homeopathy uses the plant in heart failure and hyperthyroidism.
Important properties: Yellow flowers. The fruits are densely packed in a spherical to cylindrical arrangement.
CAUTION! Never in self-medication, exclusively homeopathy!
