Why Oleander flowers Banned by Kerala temple boards?

Source-This post on Why Oleander flowers Banned by Kerala temple boards is based on the article “Why Kerala has banned oleander flowers in temple offerings” published in “The Indian express” on 13th May 2024.

Why in the News?

Two temple boards in Kerala have prohibited the use of oleander flowers in offerings. This decision follows the tragic death of a 24-year-old woman who accidentally consumed oleander leaves.

About oleander flowers

1. About oleander flowers: Nerium oleander is commonly known as oleander or rosebay. It is a globally cultivated plant found in tropical, subtropical, and temperate regions.

2. Use: It is renowned for its ability to withstand drought conditions. It is frequently used for ornamental and landscaping purposes. It is also used for medicinal purposes. 

3. Varieties and Names in Kerala: In Kerala, locally known as arali and kanaveeram. It is grown along highways and beaches, serving as natural green fencing. Different varieties of oleander exist, each with flowers of varying colours.

4. Traditional Medicinal Use: It is used in treatment of vrana (infected wounds), kustha (skin diseases including leprosy), krimi (microbes and parasites), kandu (itching).

5. Why Oleander flowers Banned by Kerala temple boards?

Despite medicinal use, oleander is toxic.

i) This is due to the properties of cardiac glycosides (a type of chemical) including oleandrin, folinerin, and digitoxigenin, which are present in all parts of the plant.

ii) Cardiac glycosides have therapeutic value in heart conditions but have a narrow therapeutic window, leading to frequent overdose and toxicity.

iii) Toxic effects include nausea, diarrhoea, vomiting, confusion, irregular heartbeat, and, in severe cases, death. Ingestion or inhalation of smoke from burning oleander can also be intoxicating.

iv) Symptoms typically last for 1 to 3 days and may necessitate hospitalization. Fatalities are uncommon.

UPSC Syllabus: Species in News