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Milk sickness is an illness caused by tremetol, a toxic alcohol found in white snakeroot plants native to North America. Cattle that eat these plants develop a condition known as "trembles," which can lead to weakness and tremors. Humans typically contract milk sickness by consuming the milk of poisoned animals.12

Symptoms in humans include loss of appetite, nausea, weakness, abdominal discomfort, and abnormalities in blood acidity due to ketone body accumulation. In severe cases, convulsions, coma, and death can occur. Historically, milk sickness was a significant cause of death for settlers in the American Midwest during the early 19th century.12

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