Poison refers to any substance that can cause harm or death when introduced into the body. It can be found in various forms, including liquids, solids, and gases. Common examples of poisons include certain plants like belladonna, chemicals like cyanide, and even some animal venoms. The effects of poison can vary widely, depending on the type and amount ingested, inhaled, or absorbed.
In nature, many organisms produce poisons as a defense mechanism against predators. For instance, the poison dart frog secretes toxins through its skin to deter threats. Understanding poisons is crucial in fields like medicine and environmental science, where identifying and managing toxic substances can prevent harm to humans and wildlife.