Other People: Why do you study poisonous plants? That's creepy!
Me: *nose in book* Did you know that poison ivy, oak, and sumac aren't really poisonous? Humans as a species just tend to be allergic to them. Also, they're close relatives of cashews, pistachios, and mangos, so super sensitive people can have the same reaction to mangos. Some people are completely immune to the stuff, though. Could roll in it and be fine.
Them: Shit, really?
Me: Mmmhmmm. Also, poison hemlock is related to wild carrot and basically looks the same. If you know the difference, you can avoid eating it.
Them: Oh, yikes! What's the difference?
Me: *hands them book* Study poisonous plants and find out.
Seriously, yes, I know lots about plants you can use to murder people. I know this because I do not want to accidentally eat them.
Or, you know, believe the leader of my country when he says aconite will cure Covid19.
(Also, a lot of them are very popular in gardens. Wear gloves, guys, and don't prune your laurel bushes if there isn't a good breeze going. Or take the branches to the dump in an enclosed vehicle.)
