Station #2: Poisons/Poisonous Plants

1. Station #2: Poisons/Poisonous Plants Some plants have toxins that can be poisonous to humans if ingested or touched. ·Plants extracts have been used as arrow poisons, emetics, diuretics, and heart tonics. Plants containing cardiac glycosides have been used as poisons and heart drugs since at least 1500 B.C. ·Some plants contain chemicals called cardiac glycosides, which can have beneficial or toxic effects on the heart. Negative effects include heart problems and a severe stomachache. However, they are also used in modern treatment of congestive heart failure. They are a good example of “the dose makes the poison.” Examples of cardiac glycosides include Oleander, an evergreen shrub with large pink or white flowers, Foxglove and Lily-of-the-Valley. ·Poison Ivy and Poison Oak are commonly known plants that cause significant discomfort from skin irritation and rashes.  ·Mushrooms grow in many areas of the country; some are poisonous and can be fatal if eaten. Only experts in mushroom identification can tell the difference between poisonous and safe mushrooms. Do not eat wild mushrooms. ·Hemlock is a member of the plant family that includes parsley, parsnip, fennel, and carrot. These plants have an acrid, watery juice. In proper doses it is a valuable medicine. However, Hemlock also contains a volatile, oily alkaloid, which is poisonous.   http://www.vet.purdue.edu/depts/addl/toxic/plant28.htm Written by Kathy Dougherty Created by Michelle Horner http://www.vet.purdue.edu/depts/addl/toxic/plant52.htm