Use of Toxic and Allergen Plants in Landscape Arrangements of Urban Historical Areas: The Case of Çeşme Castle (İzmir)

Abstract

Urban historical areas and buildings are structures that provide important information, culture and tradition transfer from the past to the present. These places are both an effective tourism area and a part of urban life. In addition to the aesthetic, ecological and functional benefits of the plants to be used in urban historical areas, their allergenic and toxic effects should be paid attention. Exposure to plants with toxic effects may cause mild or serious adverse effects on human health. The study was carried out to identify toxic and allergenic plants in the historical area of Çeşme Castle and to make evaluations about the area. Plants were examined on site in the study area and photographs were taken. According to the literature, the allergenic effects, toxic status, toxic parts and active ingredient of the plant species were determined. The data obtained were analysed and as a result of the analyses; 30 plant species, 29 genera and 22 families were identified in the area. Toxic plant species ratio in the area was 53.33 % and allergenic plant species ratio was 36.66 %. According to their forms, toxic plant species ratio was 37.5 % and allergenic plant species ratio was 81.81 %, with the highest proportion found in tree form plant species. Among the identified plants, 5 species have both toxic and allergenic effects. Recommendations have been made regarding the use of poisonous and allergenic plants in the field. Recommendations was made regarding the use of toxic and allergenic plants in the area.