Wilderness First Aid

Lesson 8: POISONOUS PLANT OVERVIEW

This lesson will provide an overview of poisonous plants, and where to find information on poisonous plants and their effects.

INTRODUCTION TO LESSON 8

In this lesson, we’re going to look at an overview of poisonous plants. This lesson was initially intended to be a full-fledged lesson, delving into the mysterious world of poisonous plants. However, as I started to organize my material, I realized that I couldn’t possibly be thorough enough to appease my conscience in the space given for each lesson. There are so many poisonous and toxic plants in the United Stated alone, and the number of toxic plants worldwide is staggering. The effects of all of these plants vary widely, from mild to fatal, localized and systemic. Symptoms, complications, and illness from poisonous plants also vary, and to thoroughly explain all aspects of poisonous plants, even just those found in a particular locale, would be a course in itself! So we’re going to take a general look at poisonous plants, where they’re found, and their effects. There will be plenty of links for you to explore, as well as great resources on where to find more information on poisonous plants.

By the end of this lesson, you will:

• Understand where poisonous plants are found.
• Understand the two specific effects poisonous plants can have on humans (i.e. localized reactions vs. systemic), and how those effects are attained.
• Know where to find general or specific information on poisonous plants.
• Know how to provide first aid to a victim of a localized plant reaction.
• Know how to recognize general systemic symptoms of plant poisoning.
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