cicuta

Cicuta is a genus of perennial flowering plants in the carrot family (Apiaceae), commonly known as water hemlocks. The genus comprises several highly toxic species native to temperate regions of the Northern Hemisphere, especially wetlands, marshes, and stream banks. Cicuta species are tall herbs with hollow stems, finely divided, pinnate leaves, and umbrella-like clusters of small white flowers.

The best known species are Cicuta maculata, the spotted water hemlock; Cicuta virosa, the northern or cowbane; and Cicuta douglasii, the western water hemlock. They occur across North America and Eurasia, often in moist meadows and riparian habitats. All parts of the plant contain cicutoxin and related toxins, and are dangerous to humans and livestock if ingested. Cicutoxin is a potent neurotoxin that disrupts inhibitory neurotransmission, potentially causing seizures and death; there is no simple antidote and treatment is primarily supportive care with seizure management.

Poisoning signs appear rapidly, usually within 15 minutes to several hours, beginning with nausea, vomiting, and abdominal pain, followed by tremors, confusion, seizures, coma, and possibly respiratory failure. Early decontamination with activated charcoal may be useful if ingestion is recent and medical help is sought promptly.

Due to their similarity to edible plants and the high risk of fatal poisoning, Cicuta species should not be foraged for food or medicine, and gardens should be clearly labeled to prevent accidental ingestion by humans or animals.