Plants have historically been used as a food source and a remedy for various ailments. However, we must be cautious as seemingly harmless plants can harbour deadly poisons and consuming them could prove fatal. From the infamous poison hemlock that claimed Socrates’ life to unsuspecting toddlers ingesting deadly nightshade, poisonous plants have left a tragic mark on human history.
This article aims to shed light on some toxic plants, helping you stay informed and protected. We list the top 10 most poisonous plants known for their toxic properties.
Top 10 poisonous plants
Cerbera odollam or ‘Suicide Tree’
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Cerbera odollam, known as the ‘Suicide Tree,’ is a poisonous plant that contains cerberin, a cardiotoxin that blocks heart ion channels. It leads to a halt in a heartbeat. It has been used for suicidal and homicidal poisoning. It may cause symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, coma and death within hours.
Datura stramonium
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Datura plants are highly poisonous plants, containing dangerous toxins – hyoscyamine, atropine and scopolamine. An overdose can lead to delirium, lowered heart rate, hyperthermia and even death.
Calotropis gigantea
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Calotropis gigantea, also known as madar, is a poisonous plant. The plant, mainly its sap, has toxins, including calotropin, which may have fatal effects when ingested.
Aconitum species
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Aconitum species contain potent toxins, including aconite alkaloids, which are cardio-toxic and neurotoxic. Accidental ingestion or consumption of herbal medicines containing these toxins can lead to poisoning, causing numbness, lowered blood pressure, heart rate, chest pain and nausea.
Gloriosa superba
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Gloriosa superba, also known as Kalihari, contains toxic colchicine. Ingestion of any plant part could lead to symptoms such as abdominal pain, dehydration, respiratory difficulties, mental status alterations, seizures and death.
Ricinus communis
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Ricinus communis, or the castor plant, contains ricin, one of the most potent natural toxins. Its seeds contain ricin and RCA (Ricinus communis agglutinin), which are highly toxic. Ricin is cytotoxic, causing severe cell damage and its ingestion could be fatal.
Oleander nerium
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Oleander is known for its highly toxic nature, with toxins like oleandrin and nerine present in all parts of the plant. The poison is so potent that even honey from bees who ingested oleander nectar can be poisonous. It is commonly used as a decorative plant, despite its destructive properties.
The Tree of Death (Hippomane mancinella)
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The tree of death is native to Mesoamerica and the Caribbean Sea islands. It contains toxins that can cause severe skin irritations, blindness and respiratory problems when its sap is burned. Consumption of the fruit can lead to severe vomiting, diarrhoea and death.
Ageratina altissima
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White snakeroot contains tremetol, a poisonous alcohol, which is passed to humans via poisoned cattle meat and milk. Consuming contaminated products can lead to symptoms like loss of appetite, nausea, weakness and mortality.
Rosary Pea (Abrus precatorius)
Source: Pinterest Earth&Jungle
Rosary pea seeds contain abrin, a highly deadly ribosome-inhibiting protein. A minute amount of abrin is enough to kill an adult, making these seeds extremely dangerous.
FAQs
Are these plants dangerous to humans?
Yes, these plants can be dangerous and toxic to humans. These plants contain harmful chemicals or compounds. That causes severe harm or even death when consumed or comes into contact with the human body (skin). These plants' toxins affect our nervous, respiratory and other vital organs.
Is there an antidote for the toxins in these plants?
In some cases, specific antidotes or medical treatments are available for poisoning caused by these plants. However, immediate medical attention is crucial in any suspected poisoning case.
Can touching these plants cause poisoning?
Yes, some of these plants can cause skin irritation and allergic reactions upon contact. It is essential to handle them with gloves and wash hands thoroughly afterwards.
Are all parts of these plants toxic?
In most cases, yes. Many poisonous plants are highly toxic throughout all their parts, including—leaves, stems, flowers, seeds, and roots. However, the amount of toxins that exist might differ, with some aspects being more potent than others.
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