Sium
Sium latifolium · Plant · Apiaceae
Water-parsnip produces a syndrome of poisoning characterized by violent convulsions with predominant left-sided contractions. The mental state combines excitement with profound lack of energy, and the respiratory system becomes compromised with slow, stertorous breathing.
Key symptoms
- Convulsions with arm flexure and left-sided preponderance
- Tetanus
- Much mental excitement with fear of death
- Lack of mental energy
- Dilated pupils responding to light
- Burning along alimentary tract
- Nausea and vomiting
- Tonic muscle contraction
- Loss of voluntary motion
Worse (aggravation)
- End of vomiting
Sium latifolium. Water-parsnip. N. O. Umbelliferæ. Tincture of root.
Clinical
Convulsions. Tetanus.
Characteristics
Our knowledge of Water-parsnip is derived from cases of poisoning through eating the root. The symptoms bear a strong resemblance to those of the other poisonous Umbelliferæ. The most pronounced features of the convulsions of Sium were the drawing of the arms to the middle of the body, flexure of the fingers, and the preponderance of the contractions on the left side. The lack of mental energy recalls the action of Æthusa.
1. Mind
Much excited.─Fear of death.─Lack of mental activity.
2. Head
Dizziness; headache.
3. Eyes
Pupils dilated, responded steadily to bright light.
Classical texts are in the public domain. Educational reference only — not medical advice.
