Cicuta virosa is a tall perennial herb. It has clusters of white flowers and purple-striped leaves. The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) states that "cicuta virosa is the most violently toxic plant that grows in North America."All parts of the cicuta virosa are toxic and can cause death in 15 minutes.

The plant contains cicutoxin, which rapidly acts on the central nervous system. 

Once humans accidentally eat cicuta virosa, symptoms of poisoning will appear: frequent limb tremors, convulsions, abdominal cramps, nausea, palpitations, and respiratory failure.

There has been some dispute whether the Greek philosopher Socrates drank a cup of cicuta virosa at his execution. However, Greece doesn't have cicuta virosa, making its use in that Mediterranean country unlikely.

Even though cicuta virosa is extremely poisonous, it is used as a medicine for migraines, headaches, painful menstruation, and worms in the intestines.  

Some people apply the plant directly to the skin for cases of inflammation. 

Cicuta virosa grows in marshy, swampy areas of meadows and along banks of streams, pools, and rivers. 

(All images via VCG.)

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