Do you think simmering the needles could be destroying certain properties? Idk tho
Not really. So long as you have the temperature at 185 or below. Which you just want it hot, but not boiling. Maybe slight bubbles and steam here and there. After all the temperature the water boils is below the melting point of taxine alkaloids.
Yea tree poisoning is rare but it can happen. But here's a reality check for those who are considering it. I'm a critical care nurse. Although there is no antidote for yew tree toxicity, medical treatment can be given to support your body to clear the effects of the poison from your system. A critical care team would more than likely put a trans venous pacemaker in to help your heart maintain a healthy rate and rhythm. You would also be put on a breathing machine. And if your local hospital offers it, an ECMO machine. This is the ultimate in life support. And it is not a pretty picture. You may also be lucky and get continuous dialysis. I'm not saying any of this to scare anyone or dissuade you. I've read several posts regarding ctb and what might happen if not successful. There doesn't seem to be a lot of info. regarding care after failed attempts. I just think you should be aware of what could occur. What I described is just the tip of the iceberg. There is so much more. Please be careful in what you decide.
There is but one question, though there may be an obvious answer to it. But say I made an extract with minimal impurities and swallowed it all. I only need about 180 milligrams of taxine, but can extract around 400-600mg/100 grams of seeds. Compared to simply ingesting leaves, it would do me in much faster. And by that, I mean I've sampled it a few times, first with a half-dropper, then a full dropperful, and then a lick of my salt powder. It took just a few minutes before I started feeling weird, like I was stoned on weed. Weird feeling in chest, sorta breathless, trembling hands that were sorta clammy, and dizzy. I'd imagine it'd be unlikely I'd be saved, yes?
The important thing is, if one were to do this, then it's better to consume it without all the bulk fibers slowing things down.
I think you're right about the kidneys though… Should you survive, sequels in the liver and kidneys may remain. But I also don't think it's the taxine that causes it.
The liver is likely caused by formic acid and the tannins. Kidneys, I need to look that one up.