Abstract
Historically, toxins from plants are associated with murder, assassination and suicide (Mann, 1992). The deaths of several famous historical figures have directly or indirectly involved toxins from poisonous plants. Socrates’ forced suicide involved a toxic alkaloid from poison hemlock (Conium maculatum), while the many victims of Livia (wife of Emperor Augustus) and Agrippina (wife of Claudius) succumbed to the toxic tropane alkaloids of deadly nightshade (Atropa belladona). Cleopatra is reported to have tested the extracts of several poisonous plants including henbane (Hyoscyamus niger), deadly nightshade and nux-vomica (Strychnos nu-vomica) on her slaves before she chose the asp.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Free) 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a call
