Ergot Alkaloids in Grains: From Medieval Madness to Modern Mycotoxins
The Haunting Legacy of St. Anthony’s Fire Long before “ergot alkaloids ” were known and identified, their devastating effects were etched into the cultural memory of Europe as St. Anthony’s Fire. This mysterious disease, now known as ergotism, was caused by consuming rye and other grains contaminated with the fungus Claviceps purpurea. Victims suffered burning sensations, hallucinations, convulsions, and […]