אפרזתא

Afrazsa is a plant that is poisonous to animals. Mentioned only twice in Shas there are very few clues to its identification.

The gemora says that afrazsa is a type of grass (עשב) and that it is something that if presented to an animal that it may eat it. It is also highly toxic to animals.[1]

Neither rishonim nor achronim offer suggestions to the identification of אפרזתא.

It has been suggested[2] that Afrazsa may be Hypericum perforatum aka common St. Johns Wart.[3]

Hypericum perforatum is native to Europe and Asia but has spread as a weed worldwide. It is a herbaceous perennial with extensive rhizomes. It has an upright stem that branches out near the top. It can grow up to 3 feet tall. The leaves have translucent dots that can be seen well when held up to light, hence the name perforated. The plant produces bright yellow flowers and seed pods. The flower buds and seed pods produce a reddish/purple liquid when crushed.

Ingenstion of Hypericum perforatum by livestock animals can cause photosensitization, central nervous depression, spontaneous abortion or death. This is typical when large amounts are consumed. Due to its chemical properties this plant is used as an herbal medication.

 

 

[1] שיטה מקובצת ב”ק מז. “דבטעימא בעלמא היא מתה.”

[2] Jastrow quoting Lӧw (Flora vol. 2 pg. 367). Dr. Moshe Raanan פרע מנוקב – ב”ק מז:. See תוספת הערוך השלם (ארזף 2) that according to one girsa arzafsa may be הירדוף. (oleander).

[3] The term ‘common’ or perforate St. Johns wart is used to differentiate the specific species of the genus Hypericum as often the entire genus is called St. Johns wart.