At the end of April, bird cherry traditionally begins to bloom. The flowers of this tree have a very pleasant aroma, so many people are eager to pick a couple of twigs and put them in a vase at home. But this should never be done — and the reason has little to do with allergies.
It turns out that bird cherry releases phytoncides — substances that suppress the growth of bacteria, fungi and other microorganisms. They contain hydrocyanic (prussic) acid, which is a powerful volatile poison. It is precisely this trait that makes bird cherry dangerous to humans.
When we breathe in the aroma outdoors, the surrounding air dilutes the concentration of hydrocyanic acid, so it poses no danger. But if you put the branches in a room, the situation in an enclosed space will be completely different.
Bird cherry can trigger poisoning, resulting in a headache. It can go as far as nausea and fainting. So it's better to admire the plant outdoors and not bring it into your apartment, writes the portal Sport24.
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