POISON HEMLOCK
Poison-hemlock, poison-parsleyConium maculatum—UMBELLIFERAE
Poison-hemlock, poison-parsleyConium maculatum—UMBELLIFERAE
Description:A biennial weed with leaves resembling those of parsley, dark green, finely divided, with shiny under surfaces. The plant is found in gardens, fields, and along roadsides, and reaches up to 5 feet, or more, in height. Roots resemble those of the parsnip. When crushed, both fresh leaves and roots yield a juice with a characteristic odor of the parsnip. Occasional purplish spots are found on the hollow stems.
The very small white flowers and grayish-green fruits are borne on umbrella-like stalks. The tiny fruits upon close examination have flattened inner surfaces. They also look somewhat like fruits of the anise,Pimpinella anisum.
Poisonous Parts:The leaves and fruits during flowering contain an intensely poisonous principle,coniine, and other related alkaloids. Older roots are also poisonous. Hemlock poisoning first causes a burning sensation in the mouth and throat followed by muscular weakness, stupor, and paralysis of the arms and chest. Poisonous principles act on the spinal cord and brain causing respiratory failure and death.
The poisonous hemlock juice was employed by ancient Greeks as a means of capital punishment. Socrates and other celebrities are said to have met death by this means. Accidental poisoning has occurred in modern time by mistaking the conium for parsley, parsnip, or anise plants.
Antidote:Call your doctor. Have patient vomit. Physicians perform gastric lavage as soon as possible. Treat for alkaloid poisoning and maintain respiration.