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Poisonous Plant That Leaves Its Victims With A Smile On Their Face When They Die
People have been warned about a poisonous plant that leaves its victims dead, but with a smile on their face.
It’s been branded the deadliest plant in the UK, but can be found in other parts of the world, and it often grows near to a body of water.
And while it may appear harmless, it’s in fact quite the opposite.
Why does the poisonous plant make people smile?
The plant reportedly leaves its victims not only deceased, but with a smile on their face.
This is perhaps due to the toxin effect on the central nervous system.
While scientists have debated whether this is just a coincidence, it’s happened on more than one occasion.
One theory, is that the plant’s toxic alkaloids, primarily coniine, cause gradual paralysis by interfering with the nervous system while the victim remains fully conscious.
What is the poisonous plant?
The plant, commonly nicknamed Dead Man’s Fingers, is officially named Hemlock Water Dropwort, and many mistake it for parsley.
It reportedly has both a pleasant smell and taste, which some have likened to parsnips.
But it’s important to remember that it results in absolute certain death, and not in a quick way.
The toxin, Oenanthotoxin, targets the central nervous system in the human body.
And just touching the plant can result in death.
If you touch or ingest the Hemlock Water Dropwort and fail to seek immediate medical attention to lessen your symptoms you will almost certainly face death.
If you have ingested or touched the deadly plant, it’s important to seek immediate medical attention to lesser your symptoms.
How many people have died as a result of the poisonous plant?
There are no concrete statistics reporting the exact number of deaths that the plant has caused.
However, historical data shows that in the US, a 1979-1988 study noted at least 58 deaths from poisonous plant misidentification, with water hemlock being responsible for at least five.
And in Britain, nine out of 13 reported human cases between 1900 and 1978 were fatal.
In situations where contact with the plant hasn’t been fatal, other reported symptoms include convulsions, seizures, nausea, and diarrhea.
So next time you see a pleasent-smelling, parsley-looking plant on your riverside walk, think again before going over to have a closer look!
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