Poke or Pokeberry or Pokeweed

(Phytolacca americana L.)
(= P. decandra L.)

Clinical signs

The eating of nonfatal quantities of poke, perhaps of the shoots, may cause retching or vomiting after two hours or more. These signs may be followed by dyspnea, perspiration, spasms, severe purging, prostration, tremors, watery diarrhea (often bloody) and, sometimes, convulsions. If a fatal quantity is eaten, perhaps including roots, the above signs are followed by paralysis of the respiratory organs and other narcotic effects, culminating in the death of the poisoned animal.

In pigs:

• Unsteadiness, inability to rise, wretching.
• Jerking movements of the legs.
• Subnormal temperature.

In Cattle:

• Same general signs plus a decrease in milk production.

| Description & image | Distribution | Conditions of poisoning | Control | Toxic principle |

| Plant Lists: Scientific or Common | Veterinary Medicine Library | UIUC Library |

Last revised 12/07/95
Please direct all comments or requests for information to Greg Youngen.