Abrus precatorius is a flowering plant found in the tropics. It is a perennial climber that twines around other plants. Its seeds may be used for decorative purposes but are highly toxic if swallowed.
Common names: rosary pea, crab-eye seed, jequirity bean
Family: Fabaceae
The toxic component is abrin, which is a phytotoxin. This is primarily contained in the seeds.
Toxicity of abrin includes:
(1) flu like symptoms
(2) gastroenteritis with profuse diarrhea
(3) respiratory failure
(4) altered mental status progressing to coma
(5) seizures
(6) cardiovascular failure with hypotension and shock
(7) hemolytic anemia
(8) hepatitis
The toxin can be denatured by high temperatures, which may be done by boiling the seeds in milk or other liquid then drying them.
Exposure to the plant can also cause allergic reactions, including anaphylaxis.
To read more or access our algorithms and calculators, please log in or register.
