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Natural toxins

المؤلف:  Sue Jickells , Adam Negrusz (Editors)

المصدر:  Clarkes Analytical Forensic Toxicology

الجزء والصفحة:  116

2026-09-27

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Natural toxins

The term ‘natural toxins’ usually refers to potentially toxic organic compounds of natural origin, in contrast to mineral poisons and synthetic drugs. Sources of these toxins range from simple microorganisms to highly developed vertebrates, and their chemical structures are correspondingly diverse. Exposure to natural toxins may lead to acute as well as long-term symptoms that affect almost any organ system. The highly varied chemical, biological and clinical nature of this class of poisons means that the contribution of the analytical toxicologist to the diagnosis, therapy and follow-up of ‘naturally-poisoned’ patients is limited. An extensive number of substances that comply with the definition of natural toxins have been used for therapeutic purposes. Classic examples are ergotamine, salicylic acid and the cardiac glycosides such as digoxin, and penicillin. More recent examples are ciclosporin and botulinum toxin (which is being used in the treatment of blepharospasms). Most of these substances are not discussed in this chapter. Similarly, commonly abused substances of natural origin, such as cannabis, cocaine and morphine, are covered elsewhere in this book. The diversity in chemical composition of natural toxins prevents an arrangement according to chemical structures. Accordingly, a biological classification has been chosen. Substances are discussed that originate from:

 • bacteria

• fungi

• higher plants

 • invertebrates

• vertebrates.