#socrates
/poisoning, PLANTS, berries & FUNGI, general
The {narcotic} & sedative properties of wild plants have been familiar to man since civilization began. Some people believe that Socrates, the Greek philosopher, died by drinking a cup of hemlock.


The fears of poisoning from plants & fungi are more imagined than real (in the U.K. only 2 people are known to have died of plant poisoning in the last 15yrs). There is rarely occasion for alarm. Treatment is normally mild remedy of symptoms & reassuring measures. But if you are in any doubt, seek medical advice.


Several species of plants are poisonous to eat or can cause a severe allergic reaction if their leaves brush against the skin. If in doubt about type of digested plant, identification is vital. If possible, get a sample of the plant/berries ingested.


#child eaten berries
Children are fond of eating berries which grow wild & can often be found in a domestic garden. Young children are the most commonly affected, as a result of eating colorful berries. 
!b! Children should be taught not to sample berries or any type of wild plant. 


!n! Symptoms vary according to the plant, but may include:
$1
abdominal pain
{vomiting}
excitement
flushing
{diarrhea}


breathing difficulties
{delirium} 
{coma}
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Medical help should be called immediately. Treatment is usually a {stomach pump} & relief of symptoms. Fatal poisoning is very rare.