Cactus

You may have heard that you can get water [blank] a cactus if you are ever lost and dehydrated in a desert. Does it sound like a nice survival tip to store away, but is it really that easy? It turns out that a cactus is not actually a spine-covered basin of fresh water. Such a plant would not last [blank] in an arid habitat filled with thirsty animals. Water is truly a precious resource in a desert, so, in addition to their intimidating spines, most cactus species further [blank] their spongy flesh with acids and potent alkaloids. These chemicals are usually too acrid for most humans to tolerate and are taxing on the kidneys if ingested. The flesh of some cactus species can also [blank] vomiting, diarrhoea, or temporary paralysis - none of which is conducive to your survival in an emergency situation. Cactus fruit is a better bet, though [blank] are also unpalatable if eaten raw.