The seeds of Mucuna pruriens are toxic if eaten raw. They can be ingested after removal of soluble toxic compounds.
Synonyms: velvet bean, cowhage
Plant: Macuna pruriens
Family: Fabaceae
Toxic components: levodopa, trypsin inhibitors, soponins, alkaloids
Clinical features after ingestion of the seeds:
(1) severe vomiting
(2) diarrhea
(3) mental confusion
(4) hallucinations
(5) anterograde amnesia
The patient may also have pruritus from contact with hairs on the outside of the seed pod.
The toxicity of the seeds can be reduced by soaking in water for 15 hours then boiling for 90 minutes.
