This poisonous plant gives an evil grin to the dead, here's how

The term 'sardonic grin' has roots in ancient Sardinia, linked to the toxic water-dropwort plant. This hemlock variant induced paralysis and a twisted smile, exploited by assassins and reportedly used in Phoenician 'mercy killings' of the elderly. The eerie grin, masking potential unwillingness, may have offered a false sense of acceptance.

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