Latua
Latua pubiflora, commonly known as the witch's broom or palhuén in Mapudungun, is a unique species of plant belonging to the family Solanaceae, which includes other well-known plants such as tomatoes, potatoes, and tobacco. This species is native to the temperate rainforests of southern Chile and adjacent areas of Argentina. It is the only species in the genus Latua.
Description
Latua pubiflora is a small to medium-sized shrub or small tree, reaching heights of up to 1-5 meters. It has simple, alternate leaves that are dark green, glossy, and have a leathery texture. The flowers of Latua pubiflora are particularly striking, with a vivid purple or sometimes white coloration, and are bell-shaped, hanging in clusters. The fruit is a small, round berry that turns black when ripe.
Habitat and Distribution
Latua pubiflora is found in the understory of the Valdivian temperate rainforests, a biome known for its high rainfall and dense forests. It prefers moist, shaded areas and is often found near streams or in ravines. Its distribution is relatively limited, primarily confined to specific regions of southern Chile and parts of Argentina.
Cultural Significance and Uses
In Mapuche folklore, Latua pubiflora is often associated with witchcraft and magic. The plant is believed to possess powerful hallucinogenic properties, and it has been used by shamans in traditional ceremonies to induce visions. However, it is important to note that all parts of the plant are highly toxic, and ingestion can lead to severe poisoning or death.
Toxicity
The toxic properties of Latua pubiflora are attributed to the presence of tropane alkaloids, which are potent neurotoxins. Symptoms of Latua poisoning include hallucinations, delirium, tachycardia, and in severe cases, death. There is no known antidote, and treatment is supportive and symptomatic.
Conservation Status
The conservation status of Latua pubiflora has not been formally assessed by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN). However, due to its limited range and the ongoing threats to its habitat from deforestation and human development, there is concern about its long-term survival in the wild.
See Also
References
Latua
August Heinrich Rudolf Grisebach
Rodolfo Amando Philippi
Henri Ernest Baillon
Los Lagos in Chile 2018
Pueblos indígenas de Chile
Provincia de Valdivia
Provincia de Llanquihue
Provincia de Chiloé
Valdivian temperate rainforest
Solanum nigrum
Rhaphithamnus spinosus fruit
_CIPN21501.jpg)
.jpg)
.jpg)
.jpg)
Latua
Latua
August Heinrich Rudolf Grisebach
Rodolfo Amando Philippi
Henri Ernest Baillon
Los Lagos in Chile 2018
Pueblos indígenas de Chile
Provincia de Valdivia
Provincia de Llanquihue
Provincia de Chiloé
Valdivian temperate rainforest
Solanum nigrum
Rhaphithamnus spinosus fruit
Transform your life with W8MD's budget GLP-1 injections from $125.
W8MD offers a medical weight loss program to lose weight in Philadelphia. Our physician-supervised medical weight loss provides:
- Most insurances accepted or discounted self-pay rates. We will obtain insurance prior authorizations if needed.
- Generic GLP1 weight loss injections from $125 for the starting dose.
- Also offer prescription weight loss medications including Phentermine, Qsymia, Diethylpropion, Contrave etc.
NYC weight loss doctor appointments
Start your NYC weight loss journey today at our NYC medical weight loss and Philadelphia medical weight loss clinics.
- Call 718-946-5500 to lose weight in NYC or for medical weight loss in Philadelphia 215-676-2334.
- Tags:NYC medical weight loss, Philadelphia lose weight Zepbound NYC, Budget GLP1 weight loss injections, Wegovy Philadelphia, Wegovy NYC, Philadelphia medical weight loss, Brookly weight loss and Wegovy NYC
|
WikiMD's Wellness Encyclopedia |
| Let Food Be Thy Medicine Medicine Thy Food - Hippocrates |
Medical Disclaimer: WikiMD is not a substitute for professional medical advice. The information on WikiMD is provided as an information resource only, may be incorrect, outdated or misleading, and is not to be used or relied on for any diagnostic or treatment purposes. Please consult your health care provider before making any healthcare decisions or for guidance about a specific medical condition. WikiMD expressly disclaims responsibility, and shall have no liability, for any damages, loss, injury, or liability whatsoever suffered as a result of your reliance on the information contained in this site. By visiting this site you agree to the foregoing terms and conditions, which may from time to time be changed or supplemented by WikiMD. If you do not agree to the foregoing terms and conditions, you should not enter or use this site. See full disclaimer.
Credits:Most images are courtesy of Wikimedia commons, and templates, categories Wikipedia, licensed under CC BY SA or similar.
Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD
