ŒNANTHE CROCATA
Hemlock-Dropwort, or Dead-tongue, is a poisonous indigenous, umbelliferous plant.
Accidental poisoning by this plant has occurred, the root having been mistaken for parsnip. The symptoms in one of the cases which have been recorded were those of delirium tremens; in another, which terminated fatally, vomiting of blood was followed by convulsions. First contraction and then dilatation of the pupil, spasmodic respiration, and an almost imperceptible pulse were the effects noticed. Death may take place in a few hours.
Post-mortem Appearances.—Congestion of the vessels of the brain, and gastric irritation. The face has sometimes a bloated expression, and blood may escape from the ears and mouth.
Treatment.—Purgatives and emetics, to evacuate the bowel and stomach, and thus get rid of the poison.