Table of Contents
What is Ergot?
Ergot – Toxicity: Ergot is a fungus that grows on rye and other grains. It contains a compound called ergotamine, which can cause a condition called ergotism. Ergotism can cause hallucinations, convulsions, and death.
Where is Ergot Obtained From?
Ergot is a fungus that lives on rye and other cereals. It is obtained from the dried sclerotium of the fungus.
Ergot Alkaloids and Toxicity of Ergot Alkaloids
Ergot alkaloids are a group of alkaloids that found in the ergot fungus. They are responsible for the toxicity of ergotism. Ergotism is a poisoning that is caused by the ingestion of ergot alkaloids. The symptoms of ergotism include hallucinations, convulsions, and gangrene.
Ergot of rye
Ergot of rye is a fungal infection that affects rye and other cereal crops. Therefore the fungus produces a toxin called ergotamine, which can cause hallucinations, convulsions, and even death.
Ergot Poisoning
Ergot is a fungus that grows on grains, such as rye, and can contaminate flour. It contains a poison called ergotamine, which can cause a condition called ergotism. Symptoms of ergotism include hallucinations, convulsions, and gangrene. In severe cases, ergotism can be fatal.
Life Cycle of Ergot
The life cycle of ergot very complicated and can take up to two years to complete. The cycle begins when a spore of the ergot fungus lands on a kernel of rye grain. The spore begins to grow and invade the kernel, eventually killing it. The black fungal growth that forms on the kernel called an ergot. The ergot matures and releases its spores, which spread to other kernels of rye grain, beginning the cycle anew.
Ergot Fungus
The ergot fungus is a type of fungus that typically grows on cereal grains, such as rye. It can cause a condition called ergotism, which is a type of poisoning that can lead to a range of symptoms, including hallucinations, convulsions, and even death. The ergot fungus produces a toxin called ergotamine, which is a powerful stimulant. Ergotamine can cause the blood vessels to constrict, which can lead to a condition called gangrene, in which the tissue dies due to a lack of blood flow.
Ergot Disease
A fungus that grows on rye and other grains and can cause hallucinations and other health problems.
