The primary toxic components of the Pacific Yew Tree are a group of compounds known as taxanes, which are found in the bark, needles, and seeds of the tree. Among these compounds, paclitaxel is the most well-known. While paclitaxel has beneficial uses in cancer treatment, other taxanes in the tree are acutely toxic and can cause severe health effects if ingested. Taxanes interfere with cellular division, leading to cytotoxic effects that are harmful to animals and humans alike.
