White snakeroot (Ageratina altissima) is a perennial herb native to eastern and central North America. This plant, often recognized by its clusters of small white flowers that bloom from mid-summer into fall, can reach heights of 2 to 5 feet. Despite its appearance and historical uses, white snakeroot contains a potent toxin and is considered highly dangerous for human consumption.
Historical and Traditional Uses
White snakeroot held a place in traditional medicine among Indigenous peoples and early European settlers in North America. Indigenous tribes, such as the Cherokee, used the plant’s roots to prepare poultices for snakebites. Teas from the roots were also used to address ailments like diarrhea, fevers, and kidney stones. Smoke from burning fresh leaves was also used to revive unconscious individuals.
Early European settlers adopted these practices, often without full knowledge of the plant’s potent toxicity. The name “snakeroot” stems from its historical use in treating snakebites. These historical applications highlight a period when understanding of plant chemistry and toxicology was limited.
Understanding White Snakeroot’s Toxicity
White snakeroot contains tremetol, a toxic compound responsible for its poisonous effects on livestock and humans. Tremetol is a mixture of compounds that accumulate in the plant. When grazing animals consume white snakeroot, tremetol is absorbed into their systems. The toxin can then pass into their milk and meat, making these products dangerous for human consumption.
The poisoning caused by tremetol is historically known as “milk sickness” in humans and “the trembles” in livestock. This condition was a significant public health issue in the American Midwest during the 19th century, claiming thousands of lives, including Abraham Lincoln’s mother, Nancy Hanks Lincoln. Symptoms in humans appear days after exposure and include weakness, nausea, vomiting, severe abdominal pain, muscle tremors, constipation, and difficulty standing or walking. In severe cases, tremetol poisoning can lead to prostration, delirium, coma, and death, often within two to ten days. The toxicity of white snakeroot can vary seasonally, with higher concentrations of tremetol observed in late summer and early fall.
Modern Perspective and Safety Warnings
Due to its significant toxicity, white snakeroot is not considered safe for any medicinal use today, and modern understanding of tremetol advises against self-medication with this plant. Consuming any part of the white snakeroot plant, whether fresh or dried, poses serious health risks.
For those outdoors, identification tips for white snakeroot include its upright growth, opposite leaves with serrated edges, and clusters of small white flowers that bloom late in the season. It often grows in shaded woodlands, along roadsides, and in disturbed areas. While accidental ingestion is less common due to modern farming practices and milk pasteurization, awareness of this plant in natural settings remains important. If white snakeroot ingestion or related symptoms are suspected, immediate consultation with healthcare professionals is essential.