Re: oxalis was RE: Prize Pest
- To: M*@ucdavis.edu
- Subject: Re: oxalis was RE: Prize Pest
- From: R* F* D*
- Date: Mon, 17 Jan 2000 15:13:56 -0500 (EST)
>On Mon, 17 Jan 2000, Karl Hoover wrote:
>
>> That delectable tang is due to non other than oxalic acid, named
>> of course, for this genus. This material is a a powerful rust and
>> soap scum remover and extremely toxic. It binds with calcium
>> to form insoluable crystals which rupture kidney tissue. It
>> is the metabolic successor of ethylene glycol, the principle component
>> of automobile anitfreeze, which indeed is even tastier than oxalis.
>>
>> So, unless you have some need or desire for some more discrete form of
>> seppuku I'd suggest avoid consuming both Oxalis and antifreeze. <8)
>>
>> Karl
>> San Jose California
Oxalic acid in moderation can't be that toxic, since it is found in rhubarb,
sorrel, and spinach. I have to avoid these foods because I have calcium
oxalate kidney stones. Occasional consumption by a healthy person should be
OK. Ethylene glycol would give rise to a very high load of oxalic acid if
consumed. As always, the dose level is critical.
Richard F. Dufresne
313 Spur Road
Greensboro, NC 27406
336-674-3105
