Ergotism
EN→ZH
What Does Ergotism Mean?
- 麦角中毒
- 麦角病
- 麦角毒症
Ergotism Pronunciation
/ˈɜrɡəˌtɪzəm/
Ergotism Definition
noun
Definition
A condition caused by the ingestion of ergot alkaloids from infected grains, particularly rye, leading to symptoms such as hallucinations, convulsions, and gangrene.
In ZH
一种由食用受感染谷物中的麦角生物碱引起的病症，主要表现为幻觉、抽搐和坏死等症状。
How to Use Ergotism in a Sentence
- Ergotism can occur if contaminated grain is consumed over a prolonged period.
- The symptoms of ergotism were historically misinterpreted as witchcraft.
- During the Middle Ages, outbreaks of ergotism resulted in significant morbidity.
- Farmers were cautioned against planting rye in conditions favorable to ergot.
- The study of ergotism has led to advancements in understanding fungi and their effects on human health.
Cultural Notes
Historically, ergotism was often associated with mass hysteria and witch trials, particularly in Europe.