[Illustration: Water hemlock, cowbane, beaver poison
_Cicuta maculata--UMBELLIFERAE_]
=Description=: A perennial herb reaching to 5 feet, or more, in height
and found in swampy or moist areas. At least eight species of _Cicuta_
are known to be poisonous.
As in the Conium hemlock, the roots of _Circuta_ resemble those of the
parsnip but in addition, frequently possess many tuberous rootlets
which resemble small sweet potatoes. When cut open, these yield a
yellowish aromatic oil. Stems are shiny, hollow, and often have purple
spots. Leaf bases clasp around the stem and the leaves are coarsely
divided into smaller leaflets.
Flowers are white and the small fruits are formed on umbrella-like
stalks. Each fruit possesses several prominent corky ribs.
=Poisonous Parts=: Mostly the roots. However, above ground parts are
also very poisonous and should be avoided. The similarity of roots to
parsnip and sweet potato has led to accidental poisoning in children
and adults. The poison principle is a resin-like substance called
=cicutoxin= and a small quantity of this can cause death.
Poisoning is characterized by severe stomach pain, great mental
excitation and frenzy, vomiting, and frothing at the mouth. The
frothing can be at times bloody. Breathing becomes irregular followed
by convulsions and death in a short time.
=Antidote=: Call your doctor. Have patient vomit. Physicians perform
stomach lavage before the contents of the plant are absorbed, treat
for =pierotoxin= poisoning since =cicutoxin= is related to it. This
includes a judicious use of barbiturates and morphine.