Beware the Deadly Nightshade

Tweet

Legend has it that the soldiers of Macbeth from the Shakespeare play poisoned invading Danes by giving them wine that was made from the sweet fruit of the deadly nightshade. This incredibly poisonous plant has sweet berries and can lure unwitting people to taste them particularly children. It is native to wooded or waste areas in central and southern Eurasia. The deadly nightshade also referred to as Atropa belladonna has dull green leaves and shiny black berries that are the size of cherries. Its stems, leaves, roots, and berries contain atropine and scopolamine which cause paralysis in the involuntary muscles of the body, even the heart. Just physical contact with the leaves can cause skin irritation. The deadly nightshade also grows in the U.S. so beware of what it looks like and if you’re out camping or hiking stay clear of it if you even spot this plant. Has anyone seen such a plant?