刮骨疗毒 - Guan Yu poison arrow
Photo Credit: Wikimedia Commons
ANCIENT HISTORY

Ancient China’s Favorite Poisons

Tales of treachery behind four toxins from Chinese history

When ancient Chinese rulers wanted to quietly get rid of an enemy, they often turned to toxic concoctions to do the deed. Such was ancient China’s medical prowess, that all manner of poisonous substances found in nature were used for assassinations. In Chinese mythology, even the toxic feathers of mystical birds could be used to make the perfect poisoned beverage.

Behind every poison are stories of hatred, regret, betrayal, and treachery. Discover four of them below:

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