White snakeroot

White Snakeroot (Ageratina altissima) is a poisonous perennial plant native to eastern and central North America. It is known for its white, fluffy flowers and its toxic properties, which can cause a lethal disease known as milk sickness in humans and animals.

Description

White Snakeroot is a herbaceous plant that grows up to 1.5 meters tall. The leaves are opposite, toothed, and heart-shaped. The plant blooms in late summer to early fall, producing clusters of small white flowers.

Distribution and Habitat

White Snakeroot is found in the eastern and central regions of North America. It grows in a variety of habitats, including woodlands, prairies, and along roadsides. The plant prefers shady, moist areas.

Toxicity

The plant contains a toxic alcohol known as tremetol. When ingested by cattle, the toxin can pass into the milk and cause milk sickness in humans who consume the contaminated milk. Symptoms of milk sickness include loss of appetite, nausea, weakness, abdominal discomfort, reddened tongue and lining of the mouth, and death if not treated promptly.

History

The disease milk sickness was a common cause of death for settlers in the early 19th century in the Midwest United States. It is believed that Abraham Lincoln's mother, Nancy Hanks Lincoln, died from milk sickness after consuming milk from a cow that had grazed on White Snakeroot.

Uses

Despite its toxicity, White Snakeroot has been used in traditional medicine. Native American tribes used the plant to treat snakebites, hence the common name. However, due to its toxic properties, it is not commonly used today.

See Also

• List of poisonous plants
• Milk sickness
• Ageratina

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