Carrot-fern
Conium maculatum
Conium maculatum, commonly known as poison hemlock, is a plant traditionally associated with European herbal medicine. While its use in traditional practices has not been extensively documented, it has been recognized for its potent toxic properties and has been used historically to induce sleep or death due to its toxicity. Scientific studies have identified characteristic compounds such as picrotoxinin and coniine from this plant, which are present in preparations like Vertigoheel. Additionally, a study noted the presence of stomata on the primary roots of Conium maculatum, marking it as unique among plants in the Apiaceae family. The evidence suggests that poisoning by this plant can manifest with various symptoms, including respiratory depression and cardiac issues, indicating its potential for severe adverse effects. No significant safety concerns or known drug interactions have been recorded to date, but due to its toxicity, caution is advised when handling or researching this plant.
- Best evidence
- D
- Cautions
- —
Informational only. Traditional use does not mean proven effectiveness. Evidence and safety vary — check the cited sources.
What the science says
- The study found that two patients who ingested poison hemlock experienced different clinical outcomes, suggesting a possible dose-related effect.
- The study identified characteristic compounds from each ingredient in Vertigoheel, including picrotoxinin and coniine from Conium maculatum.
- Stomata were observed on the primary roots of Conium maculatum, a first for Apiaceae.
- The study found that Conium maculatum poisoning can present with diverse symptoms, ranging from respiratory depression to cardiac issues and skin reactions.
Frequently asked questions
What is Carrot-fern?
Carrot-fern (Conium maculatum) is a plant documented in FolkKB's traditional-medicine reference, drawn from sourced literature and cross-checked against the evidence.
What does the scientific evidence say about Carrot-fern?
4 sourced findings are recorded for Carrot-fern; the strongest carries evidence grade D. For example: The study found that two patients who ingested poison hemlock experienced different clinical outcomes, suggesting a possible dose-related effect.
How strong is the evidence for Carrot-fern?
The strongest finding for Carrot-fern carries evidence grade D — preliminary or traditional. Grades run A (strongest) to D (preliminary or traditional).
Is Carrot-fern safe? What are the side effects?
No major safety issues are recorded for Carrot-fern in our sources, but the data may be incomplete. Consult a qualified professional before use.
Does Carrot-fern interact with medications?
No drug interactions are recorded for Carrot-fern in our sources. This does not rule them out — check with a pharmacist.
What are the common names of Carrot-fern?
Carrot-fern is also known as: Болиголов пятнистый, Grande ciguë.
Is Carrot-fern a proven treatment?
No. FolkKB is informational only. Traditional use and early findings are not proof of efficacy or safety — consult a qualified professional and never self-treat.
Sources
- T2 Conium Maculatum, one plant, four presentations: A case series. literature abstract metadata
- T2 Root stomata in Conium maculatum (Apiaceae): anatomically verified occurrence and a comparative survey across Apioideae. literature abstract metadata
- T2 Liquid Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry-Based Molecular Profiling of Vertigoheel. literature abstract metadata
- T2 Divergent clinical outcomes after shared poison hemlock ingestion: evidence suggesting a dose-related effect. literature abstract metadata