Claviceps purpurea

Ergot is a fungus that infects rye and other cereal grains, forming ergot bodies that produce ergotamine, which mimics LSD. It causes convulsions, hallucinations, gangrene, paranoia, and madness. Historically, ergot poisoning is suspected to have triggered the Salem Witch Trials and episodes of "dancing manias." In 1951, a mass poisoning in Pont-Saint-Esprit, France, affected over 250 people and resulted in 7 deaths, ultimately traced back to contaminated rye flour.

Previous Fact Next Fact