Australian stinging tree reveals entirely new family of neurotoxins

Seldom Bucket

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New research from the University of Queensland has solved the mystery behind the sting of one of the most venomous plants on the planet. The discovery of a previously unknown neurotoxin explains how Australian stinging trees cause excruciating pain that can last for extraordinarily long periods.

Australia is well-known for its broad assortment of venomous animals. From spiders and snakes, to scorpions and jellyfish, the country is so infamous for dangerous wild-life the notion "everything in Australia wants to kill you" has become an amusing meme.

Well, not only are the animals out to get you, but the plants are dangerous too. Dendrocnide moroides, commonly known as the Gympie-Gympie stinging tree, is one of the world’s most venomous plants. The plant’s toxin is unlikely to kill you, but stories abound describing the horrific pain its sting can cause.

The pain has been described by many as the worst kind of pain you could imagine. One researcher suggested being stung felt, “like being burnt with hot acid and electrocuted at the same time”.

 
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