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Updated: Aug 9, 2026
11:14
Rapid High-throughput Species Identification of Botanical Material Using Direct Analysis in Real Time High Resolution Mass Spectrometry
Published on: October 2, 2016
[Poisoning by the autumn crocus plant]
M Hermanns-Clausen1, F Schindler, U Stedtler
1Hermanns-Clausen Leiterin der Vergiftungs-Informations-Zentrale (VIZ), Univ.Klinikum Freiburg. hermanns@kikli.ukl.uni-freiburg.de
MMW Fortschritte Der Medizin
|April 22, 2006
Summary
Accidental ingestion of toxic Colchicum autumnale mistaken for wild garlic (Allium ursinum) caused poisoning. Boiling the toxic plant increased poisoning severity, especially in the elderly.
Area of Science:
- Toxicology
- Botany
- Clinical Medicine
Background:
- Colchicum autumnale (autumn crocus) is a highly toxic plant.
- Allium ursinum (wild garlic) is a commonly foraged edible plant.
- Mistaken identity between these two plants leads to accidental poisoning.
Purpose of the Study:
- To analyze confirmed cases of Colchicum autumnale poisoning due to misidentification with Allium ursinum.
- To identify risk factors and clinical characteristics of this poisoning.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective analysis of 32 poisoning cases.
- Grading of intoxication severity using the Poisoning Severity Score (PSS).
- Evaluation of latency period, preparation method (raw vs. boiled), and patient demographics.
Main Results:
- All patients experienced gastrointestinal symptoms (diarrhea/vomiting) after 2-24h latency.
- Boiling Colchicum autumnale increased the incidence of moderate, severe, or fatal poisoning (64%) compared to raw ingestion (33%).
- Elderly patients (>65 years) were more likely to experience severe or fatal outcomes, potentially due to decreased renal clearance and diminished sense of smell.
Conclusions:
- Colchicum autumnale poisoning is a significant risk when foraging for Allium ursinum.
- Heating Colchicum autumnale may enhance toxin absorption.
- The elderly are particularly vulnerable to severe poisoning from this misidentification.
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