Botanical Curses and Poisons

Synopsis

In Botanical Curses and Poisons, Fez Inkwright returns to folkloric and historical archives to uncover historical uses and the fascinating, untold stories behind deadly plants,witching herbs and funghi. Beautifully illustrated, this treasury of folklore is packed with insight, lore and the revealed mysteries of everyday flora - perfect for gardeners, writers, folklorists, witches and general knowledge buffs alike!

Summary

Chapter 1: The Deadly Nightshade

The chapter introduces the deadly nightshade plant (Atropa belladonna), a highly toxic species with a long history of medicinal and poisonous use. It describes the plant's appearance, growth habits, and the potent alkaloid atropine it contains.

Real Example: In ancient Greece, the philosopher Socrates was sentenced to death by drinking a potion made from deadly nightshade.

Chapter 2: The Enigmatic Monkshood

This chapter focuses on the monkshood plant (Aconitum napellus), another poisonous perennial with a sinister reputation. It discusses the plant's distinctive shape, its neurotoxic properties, and its use in traditional medicine and poisoning.

Real Example: In the 19th century, the infamous serial killer Dr. William Palmer used monkshood extract to poison his victims.

Chapter 3: The Treacherous Hemlock

The chapter explores the history and toxicity of the hemlock plant (Conium maculatum), the species responsible for the death of the philosopher Socrates. It describes the plant's appearance, its muscle-paralyzing properties, and its use as an execution method in ancient Greece.

Real Example: In 399 BC, Socrates was condemned to drink hemlock after being accused of impiety and corrupting the youth of Athens.

Chapter 4: The Fatal Foxglove

This chapter examines the toxic beauty of the foxglove plant (Digitalis purpurea). It discusses the plant's heart-stimulating glycosides, its medicinal value, and its potential for poisoning.

Real Example: In the 2017 Disney movie "Beauty and the Beast," Belle uses foxglove to treat the Beast's wound. However, excessive consumption of foxglove can lead to cardiac arrhythmias and death.

Chapter 5: The Sinister Yew Tree

The chapter explores the mysterious and toxic nature of the yew tree (Taxus baccata). It describes the plant's ancient association with death and magic, the toxicity of its leaves and seeds, and its use in traditional medicine and poisons.

Real Example: In Celtic mythology, the yew tree is considered sacred to the underworld and associated with the deity Cernunnos.

Chapter 6: Other Deadly Plants

This chapter highlights a variety of other poisonous plants, including poison ivy (Toxicodendron radicans), oleander (Nerium oleander), and castor beans (Ricinus communis). It describes their toxic properties, symptoms of poisoning, and precautions to take when encountering these plants.

Real Example: In 2020, a man in California was hospitalized after consuming poison ivy berries, which are highly toxic and can cause severe blistering and allergic reactions.