Veratrine

Human poison by ingestion. Experimental poison by ingestion, intraperitoneal, and subcutaneous routes. An experimental teratogen. Ingestion causes severe gastrointestinal tract disturbances, burning in the mouth, vomiting, diarrhea, and cramps. Also produces headache, dizziness, slow pulse, and weakness. Large doses cause death by circulatory and respiratory failure. It is a powerful irritant to skin and mucous membranes. Less toxic than rotenone. Inhalation causes violent sneezing. When heated to decomposition it emits toxic fumes of NOx. Used to kill lice.