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[Plant poisoning cases in Turkey]
1Département de Pharmacognosie, Faculté de Pharmacie, Université d'Istanbul, Turquie.
Annales Pharmaceutiques Francaises
|January 1, 1994
Summary
Wild plant and mushroom poisoning is a significant health risk in rural Turkey, particularly for children. Misidentification of edible versus toxic species leads to severe poisonings, with common culprits including Hyoscyamus niger and Amanita species.
Area of Science:
- Botany
- Toxicology
- Public Health
Context:
- Rural populations in Turkey rely on wild flora for sustenance and traditional medicine.
- Accidental ingestion of poisonous plants and fungi poses a serious health threat, with potential for fatalities.
- Plant poisoning affects approximately 6% of the Turkish population, with a notable prevalence in children aged 2-11 in rural settings.
Purpose:
- To highlight the risks associated with wild plant and mushroom consumption in Turkey.
- To identify key plant and fungal species responsible for poisoning incidents.
- To underscore the importance of accurate identification to prevent toxic exposures.
Summary:
- Plant poisoning in Turkey is a significant concern, with around twenty species implicated. Key culprits include Hyoscyamus niger, Colchicum spp., Conium maculatum, and Prunus spp.
- Mushroom poisoning peaks in spring and autumn due to widespread foraging and lack of expertise in distinguishing edible from toxic varieties.
- Severe poisoning cases are frequently linked to Amanita phalloides, A. verna, A. muscaria, and A. pantherina.
Impact:
- Increased awareness can reduce the incidence of accidental plant and mushroom poisonings in vulnerable populations.
- Educational initiatives focusing on wild flora identification are crucial for public safety in rural Turkey.
- This research emphasizes the need for better public education on toxic plants and fungi to mitigate poisoning risks.