Ergot, a fungus scientifically named Claviceps purpurea, often infects rye and wheat, producing alkaloids known as ergotamines. These compounds cause blood vessels to narrow and lead to muscle contractions. Ergotamines have been widely used to treat migraines and have also been applied, sometimes improperly, to induce labor. In large amounts, they can lead to symptoms like hallucinations, severe digestive issues, a type of dry gangrene, and a painful burning sensation in the limbs. During the Middle Ages, chronic ergot poisoning, or ergotism, was common due to the consumption of contaminated rye. The intense burning pain associated with this condition earned it the names ignis sacer (holy fire) and ignis infernalis (hell's fire), and it was a contributing factor to many historical ailments. Additionally, a derivative of ergot served as the original base for the illicit drug lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD).
