Family: Apiaceae Genus: Thapsia

Species: Thapsia villosa L.

Common Name(s): deadly carrot, thapsia; (Spanish) cañaheja; (Basque) kundjhoo, bermidor

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Thapsia villosa, commonly known as the deadly carrot, is a species of poisonous herbaceous plants native to southwestern Europe and northwestern Africa around the Mediterranean Sea. The plant is known for both its ornamental, bright yellow color and its poisonous properties.

Traditional Medicine and Modern Science

The medicinal properties of the genus Thapsia were recognized as early as 300 BC. Ancient Greek and Roman physicians, such as Dioscorides and Pliny the Elder, documented its use for treating various ailments, including respiratory issues, inflammation, and as a purgative. In traditional medicine, the roots were employed as a purgative and emetic, while resin from the plant was used as a vesicant or counterirritant. In Spain, the resin was traditionally used to treat scabies. Poultices made from root bark infused with oil were applied as pain-relievers and for treating rheumatism. In Salamanca, such poultices were also used to treat cracks in horse hooves.

Today, these medicinal uses are not advised due to the danger posed by its poisons. However, Thapsia garganica, Thapsia transtagana, and Thapsia villosa are of interest to modern medical researchers for their potential in treating neurodegenerative disorders like Alzheimer’s or Parkinson’s disease.67

Other Colorful Uses

Poison from the roots of deadly carrot is traditionally used by fishermen in Catalonia as an ichthyotoxin for stunning fish, making them easier to catch. Extracts from the root bark have been used since ancient times as a yellow dye.68

In the past, children crafted paper mills using the plant stems, securing them with a thread and needle, and racing them to see which one would spin the most.69

Notes on Toxicity

Historically, deadly carrot has been implicated in both accidental poisonings, due to its resemblance to wild carrots, and intentional poisonings.