Strychnine is an alkaloid found in the seeds of the Strychnos nux-vomica tree. It is a highly toxic substance that has been used for centuries as a pesticide and in traditional medicine. However, due to its toxicity, strychnine is now tightly controlled and is only available for purchase with a prescription.
Strychnine was first isolated in 1818 by the French chemists Pierre Pelletier and Joseph Caventou. It was quickly recognized as a powerful poison, and its use as a pesticide became widespread. Strychnine was also used in traditional medicine to treat a variety of conditions, including paralysis, convulsions, and depression. However, due to its toxicity, strychnine is now rarely used for medicinal purposes.
