-IBIS-1.5.0-

rx

herb

Oenanthe crocata (Water Dropwort)

botanicals

definition

botanical name(s): Oenanthe crocata

synonyms: water dropwort

part(s) used: root

qualities:

affinities:

actions:

dosage:

» powder: 0.008 - 0.032 g.

» tincture: 1/20 to 1/2 drops (0.003 - 0.03 ml.) 5 drops fatal (Felter)

therapy:

toxicity: 4

» Intoxication occurs due to the unsaturated aliphatic compound oenanthetoxin. Signs and symptoms include salivation, a sensation of burning in the throat, a heightened mental excitation, severe gastric pain, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. Vertigo, loss of sight and hearing, dysphagia, and a generalized numbness may occur; in more severe cases trismus, frenzy, delirium, feeble pulse, and convulsions are also seen. Violent spasms can lead to delirium, stertorous breathing, coma, and often death. Circulatory failure occurs; a distinctive red, blotchy outbreak will occur on the face, breasts, arms (AMA, p. 124; Duke, p. 334; Ellingwood, p. 127; Fuller and McClintock, p. 350).

constituents: oenanthetoxin, a polyunsaturated higher alcohol

footnotes

Duke, J.A. 1985. C.R.C. Handbook of Medicinal Herbs. Boca Raton, FL: The C.R.C. Press.

Ellingwood, F. 1898. American Materia Medica, Therapeutics, and Pharmacognosy. Portland, OR: Eclectic Medical Publications.

Fuller, T.C., and McClintock, E. 1986. Poisonous Plants of California. Los Angeles: University of Southern California Press.

Lampe, K.F., and McAnn, M.A. 1985. AMA Handbook of Poisonous and Injurious Plants. Chicago: American Medical Association.