There are few things more enjoyable than a nice hike through the woods, but while it may seem peaceful to us, the reality is that every forest is full of strife as densely packed organisms vie for limited resources and their very survival. Over time, different creatures have developed vastly different ways of dealing with the problems they face.
They may look harmless enough, but plants can harbor some of the most deadly poisons known. From the death of Socrates by poison hemlock to the accidental ingestion of deadly nightshade by children, poisonous plants have been responsible for human deaths throughout history.
Touching some plant saps, stems, or leaves may cause a skin rash. Parts of many plants may lead to severe gastrointestinal upset if eaten. Ingesting some plants may result in heart problems or nervous system issues.
Get to know some of the most infamous plants and their poisons below, from AWM:
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Angel’s Trumpet
Is a plant that resembles the common chrysanthemum, but it is far more dangerous. Every part of this plant is dangerous including the seeds, roots, and leaves. It can cause hallucinations, labored breathing, and even death. The poison is so toxic that it can make a person sick even if they were to just touch it.
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White Snakeroot
It is a plant that is similar in looks to the harmless, dainty, baby’s breath. It is a common plant throughout the Midwest and Eastern United States. Before people were more highly educated about these types of things, cows were known to ingest this plant and as a result, infecting the milk supply. Now farmers are very careful to make sure that their animals ingest particular things.
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Foxglove
Many of these poisonous plants are colorful and downright pretty, Foxglove is one of those types of plants. It is also known as digitalis and it is known to be found all over the United States. This plant has compounds within it that are used in medications for people with heart failure. When people consume these compounds that are not suffering from this condition, it has been shown to be fatal.
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Rosary Pea
Is a plant with an unassuming name and a pretty look, like other poisonous plants. It can compromise a person’s breathing if it is inhaled and can kill if it is ingested. Abrin is the toxin that this plant contains, which is a compound that is in the same class of compounds as the dangerous poison ricin. It has been found growing wild in Southern Florida.
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Water Hemlock
Also known as cicuta virosa, it is found to grow naturally in North America and Europe. It is one of the most poisonous plants on earth and it has the ability to kill a person within 15 minutes of consumption. The scary part is that it can be mistaken for parsley or a carrot plant when it is not in full bloom.
So the next time you’re out enjoying the serenity of a long hike through the woods, make sure to keep an eye out for any toxic foliage native to the region you’re hiking in.
While the symptoms of the plants listed above are certainly on the extreme end of the spectrum, every region has its share of plants that will poke, scratch, itch, and sometimes even poison you.
Source: AWM