Daphne mezereum

Mezereum (Daphne mezereum L.) is a species of flowering plant in the family Thymelaeaceae, native to southern Europe and southwestern Asia. It is a deciduous shrub growing to 1-2 meters (3-6 feet) tall, with pale pink flowers in early spring, and glossy green leaves that turn yellow in autumn. The plant is also known by several common names, including spurge olive, February daphne, and winter daphne. In Hebrew, it is called דפנה מצויה (Daphna metzuya). The name "mezereum" is derived from the Persian word mezere, meaning "burning," which refers to the plant's irritant properties. The plant contains the toxic alkaloid mezerein, which can cause severe skin irritation and blistering. Historically, mezereum has been used in homeopathy and traditional medicine, but its use is now largely obsolete due to its toxicity and the availability of safer alternatives. The plant is also cultivated as an ornamental for its attractive flowers and foliage.