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The Weed That Killed Lincoln's Mother and Other Botanical Atrocities: An Exploration of the Dark Side of Nature

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Grave Of Nancy Hanks Lincoln, Mother Of Abraham Lincoln, Who Died From Milk Sickness Caused By White Snakeroot Wicked Plants: The Weed That Killed Lincoln S Mother And Other Botanical Atrocities

The natural world is often seen as a place of beauty and wonder, but it also has a darker side. Some plants are poisonous, and some can even be deadly. In "The Weed That Killed Lincoln's Mother and Other Botanical Atrocities," author Amy Stewart explores the fascinating and often disturbing history of plants that have harmed humans.

Wicked Plants: The Weed That Killed Lincoln's Mother and Other Botanical Atrocities

by Amy Stewart

4.7 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	6465 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
X-Ray	:	Enabled
Print length	:	292 pages

The Poisonous Plants of History

Stewart begins by discussing the white snakeroot, the plant that killed Lincoln's mother. This plant is native to North America and was once common in the Midwest. The roots of the plant contain a toxin that can cause milk sickness, a fatal disease that affects the nervous system and digestive tract.

Stewart also discusses other poisonous plants that have played a role in history, such as the hemlock that killed Socrates and the belladonna that was used as a poison by the Borgias. She also explores the use of plants in witchcraft and medicine, and the role that plants have played in wars and conflicts.

The Benefits of Poisonous Plants

While some plants are deadly, others have medicinal properties that can be used to treat a variety of illnesses. For example, the foxglove plant contains a compound that is used to make digitalis, a heart medication. The willow tree contains a compound that is used to make aspirin, a pain reliever.

Stewart argues that the same plants that can be harmful can also be helpful, and that it is important to understand the potential risks and benefits of plants before using them.

"The Weed That Killed Lincoln's Mother and Other Botanical Atrocities" is a fascinating and informative book that explores the dark side of nature. Stewart's writing is clear and engaging, and she provides a wealth of information about poisonous plants and their history. This book is a must-read for anyone interested in the natural world or the history of medicine.

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The Hidden Dangers of Plants: Exploring the Poisonous Past and Medicinal Promise of Nature's Dark Side

A photograph of the grave of Nancy Hanks Lincoln, the mother of Abraham Lincoln, who died from milk sickness caused by white snakeroot. The grave is located in the Lincoln Boyhood National Memorial in Indiana.

Wicked Plants: The Weed That Killed Lincoln's Mother and Other Botanical Atrocities

by Amy Stewart

4.7 out of 5