Zapping Through the Most Toxic Plants and Their Symptoms

With an estimated 700 species of toxic plants found around the world, it's crucial to be aware of which ones can pose a significant threat to human health. This article will focus on two of the most dangerous plants - Deadly Nightshade (Atropa belladonna) and Red Baneberry (Actaea rubra).

Deadly Nightshade (Atropa belladonna)

Deadly Nightshade holds a notorious reputation as one of the most poisonous plants, often found reaching a height of 1.5 meters with its dull dark green leaves and bell-shaped purple blooms. This perennial plant, recognized for its long, thin branches, presents a serious danger due to its hallucinogenic effects. Though less common, its leaves, flowers, and stems are all toxic, with symptoms often leading to severe health complications.

Physical Characteristics of Deadly Nightshade

The plant features oval leaves that are toothless and have smooth edges with pointy tips. These leaves grow in an alternating pattern on stalks, and the bell-shaped purple and green flowers vary in size, measuring approximately 2.5–3 cm in length.

Symptoms and Effects of Deadly Nightshade Poisoning

Dealing with a dose of Deadly Nightshade can lead to severe poisoning, including symptoms such as:

Diarrhea Vomiting Gastroenteritis Cardiac arrest Headaches Dizziness Circulatory failure

As documented in Rhodora, Alice E. Bacon reported a vivid experience after consuming a non-fatal dose, which included:

A pyrotechnic display of blue objects Sudden confusion and disabilities to recollect and arrange ideas Great dizziness and abnormally fast and irregular heartbeat Parched lips and constricted throat Severe stomach pain with gaseous eructations and sharp pains in the abdomen

Red Baneberry (Actaea rubra)

Red Baneberry (Actaea rubra) is another toxic plant found across Canada and the United States. Part of the buttercup family, Ranunculaceae, this plant is notable for its bitter taste, making it a less appealing choice for human consumption. However, its toxic effects, particularly from the roots and berries, can be fatal.

Risk and Symptoms of Red Baneberry Poisoning

Ingestion of red baneberry can lead to severe symptoms such as:

Gastroenteritis Stomach cramps Headaches Dizziness Vomiting Diarrhea Circulatory failure

In 1903, an account published in Rhodora by Alice E. Bacon detailed her experience after consuming a sub-lethal amount. Her symptoms included:

A weight pressing on the top of her head and sharp pains shooting through her temples Confusion and difficulty with coherent speech Dizziness and sensations of floating through space Burning sensation in the stomach, followed by sharp colicky pains in the abdomen Increased heart rate with fluttering discomfort

Despite the severity of these symptoms, full recovery was reported approximately three hours post-ingestion.

Animal Impact and Protection from Red Baneberry

Interestingly, Red Baneberry serves as a food source for several bird species including the Yellow-bellied Sapsucker, American Robin, Wood Thrush, Gray-cheeked Thrush, Brown Thrasher, Gray Catbird, and Grouse. This demonstrates the plant's ability to survive and thrive despite its toxicity.

Conclusion

With the potential to be fatal, both Deadly Nightshade and Red Baneberry pose significant risks to human health. Understanding their characteristics, effects, and symptoms can be crucial in ensuring safety and preventing poisoning incidents.