Most of the alkaloids contain thirty to thirty-five carbon atoms, although some have a smaller number. Therefore, these alkaloids can be classified as polypeptides. All ergot alkaloids form lysergic acid. Lysergic acid diethylamide, LSD, is the most powerful compound known that produces imitations of severe mental disorders. Ergot alkaloids not only have the indole structure but the other ring system and side chains as well.
Some symptoms involve tingling of fingers, vomiting, and diarrhea.
Other symptoms involve losing the sensation in fingers and limbs of developing gangrene of fingers where they rot away, which causes painful spasms of legs and arms. In general, animals are more susceptible to obtaining this poisonous fungus because they eat grass in pastures that may contain ergot. Acute poisoning to the cattles display intermittent blindness, deafness, and variation of sensitivity of skin. More severe cases display comas, temporary paralysis, stiff-legged walking, falling in unusual positions. Cows have many problems after consuming this poisonous fungus.