Some Observations on Accidental Poisoning with Special Reference to Its Incidence in Calcutta

It is difficult, almost impossible, to give an exact definition of the term ' poison ', for substances which are innocuous to the body and are necessary for maintaining health may act as poisons under certain conditions. Almost anything that can be absorbed can be made dangerous to health if enough of it be taken. For instance, common salt, a harmless substance essential for maintenance of a healthy condition of the body may, when given in large quantities, act as an acute poison, capable of destroying life, especially in the case of newborn babies.