JACK-IN-THE-PULPIT; INDIAN TURNIP (ARISAEMA TRIPHYLLUM)
Jack-in-the-pulpit is not widespread in Nova Scotia, but can be found in rich soil in woodlands, thickets, ditches, and low-lying streamsides. It is an unusual wildflower in appearance. Leaflets are in threes, above which a spathe arises. This green and white striped hood obscures the spadix carrying the flowers, or Jack. The fruit are clusters of red berries.
The corms were once dried and ground as a coarse flour; apparently, this processing renders harmless the oxalate crystals, which normally cause poisoning symptoms when the plant is eaten.
The greatest concentration of the toxin occurs in the leaves.
Calcium oxalate, a compound derived from oxalic acid, as well as enzymes that trigger the release of histamine in the bloodstream of persons who ingest the leaves. Oxalates are needle-like crystals, which, when eaten, may pierce the mouth, throat, and digestive tract as they pass through, causing, at the very least, intense discomfort.
TYPICAL POISONING SCENARIO
The main problem lies with infants, toddlers, or pets who, once attracted to the showy flowers and foliage, may nibble on the leaves. If arums are kept out of curious mouths, there is little further risk, as they are quite safe to handle.
Even small doses of oxalate toxin is enough to cause intense sensations of burning in the mouth and throat, swelling, and choking.
In larger doses, oxalate causes severe digestive upset, breathing difficulties, and—if enough is consumed—convulsions, coma, and death. Recovery from severe oxalate poisoning is possible, but permanent liver and kidney damage may have occurred.
JACK-IN-THE-PULPIT; INDIAN TURNIP POISON INFORMATION
Oxalates are unstable salts of oxalic acid. When eaten, they break down to release the highly poisonous acid.
The sour flavour of sorrel (Rumex species), wood sorrel (Oxalis), and even rhubarb is due to the presence of the acid.
Some plants may contain differing amounts of potassium or calcium salts, rendering them unsafe, particularly in the buckwheat and goosefoot families.