Hemlock (Conium maculatum)

First, it is noteworthy that this plant is very active and poisonous, so its use must be provided at all times controlled by a professional practitioner, and in no case exceed the dose prescribed by him. It is a biennial herbaceous plant that is, the first year grow roots and leaves, and in the second year of life is when you develop a large stalk, often the size of a person, which is characterized by hollow striated with dark red spots near the base. The leaves are large, bright and very divided, and have a triangular shape. The flowers are arranged in umbels.

FLOWERING

The flowering is in May, and harvesting the fruit is ripe yet carried out from June to August, and stored dry in glass jars.

APPLICATIONS

Apart from alkaloids already mentioned, also has gum, pectin, resins, salts, carotene ... But because of its high toxicity, we must remember that only six grams of leaves may result in death, should never be used if not prescription, and in no case exceed the dosage recommended by the panel. Its use is limited to particular cases of certain carcinomas terminals.

ADMINISTRATION

The hemlock alkaloids are draggable has water vapor, that means that if an infusion is made with part of the plant, will lose part of their activity, so it is not used this type of preparations in this case.
In powder plant can take from 0.1 to 0.5 grams per day, with the maximum permitted dose of 0.5 grams in adults four times a day, and children, from 0.2 grams per day and year of age.
Water extract. 0.05 grams to 0.25 grams per day.
Alcoholic extract. 0.01 gram to 0.03 grams per dose, with a maximum of 0.1 gram per day.
Plasters and ointments. 1 gram of extract in 9 grams of excipient.
Poultice. The fresh plant on the skin, or mixing 10 grams of powdered hemlock, with 250 grams of shredded carrot helps reduce the pain.

SUMMARY

FAMILY: Umbelliferae
HABITAT: Roadsides in wet counties
FLOWERING: May
PART USED: Fruit
CATALAN: Ciguda, fonoll de bou
BASQUE: Otzerri-belarr, apo-perrexil
GALICIAN: Cegude, prixel das bruxas

USES

Toxic Strong, Antispasmodic Moderate, Moderate analgesic.