A woman is now dead and two family members hospitalised after they consumed an indigenous drink which has been traditionally used as a medicine to treat tuberculosis and high blood pressure.
The dead woman has been identified as Muriel Edwards 42, of Princeville, Potaro-Siparuni, in Region Eight.
Police yesterday said that between 8.30 am and 10.30 am on Friday, Edwards, who resides with her mother, brother, and uncle, all consumed the concoction. The traditional medicine was mixed by Edwards’s mother.
Investigations have revealed that the concoction was made from the juice of a vine that is normally extracted and used to poison fish. When a small quantity is mixed with water it can be used for medicinal purposes.
However, sometime after consuming the substance Edwards began to vomit and fell unconscious. She was rushed to the Mahdia District Hospital and was later pronounced dead on arrival. Two other family members also complained of feeling unwell and sought medical attention at the hospital. They were examined by a doctor, treated, and later released from medical care.
Police also stated that Edwards’s body was examined but no marks of violence were seen on the most exposed areas.
As investigations continue, police informed they have taken samples which were forwarded to a lab for further testing.
An autopsy was performed and the cause of death ruled as inconclusive.
