A plant disease believed to have played a part in the Salem witch trials through the production of hallucinogenic alkaloids is ergotism.
Ergotism is a disease caused by the fungus Claviceps purpurea, which infects the seeds of various grasses, including rye and wheat. The fungus produces alkaloids, including lysergic acid, which can cause hallucinations and other symptoms when ingested. Ergotism was prevalent in Europe in the Middle Ages and was known as "St. Anthony's fire" because the symptoms were believed to be caused by the wrath of St. Anthony.
Ingestion of ergot-contaminated grain can cause symptoms such as hallucinations, seizures, and muscle spasms, and in severe cases, it can lead to gangrene and death.
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