Abrus
Abrus
Abrus (/ˈeɪbrəs/), also known as the rosary pea or crab's eye, is a genus of flowering plants in the family Fabaceae. The genus is native to warm tropical regions and is best known for its highly toxic seeds, which are used in traditional medicine and for ornamental purposes.
Etymology
The name Abrus is derived from the Greek word "abrus", meaning "delicate". This is in reference to the plant's delicate, slender leaflets.
Description
Abrus is a genus of perennial, twining vines with slender, pinnate leaves and small, pea-like flowers. The most well-known species, Abrus precatorius, produces bright red seeds with a single black spot. These seeds are highly toxic if ingested or if their outer coating is broken and they come into contact with the skin.
Toxicity
The seeds of Abrus species contain the toxic compound Abrin, which is similar to the better-known Ricin found in the castor oil plant. Abrin is highly toxic and can cause severe illness or death if ingested or if it enters the bloodstream.
Uses
Despite their toxicity, Abrus seeds have been used in traditional medicine in many cultures. They have been used to treat a variety of conditions, including coughs, colds, and fevers. However, due to their high toxicity, they must be used with extreme caution.
Related Terms
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Abrus
- Wikipedia's article - Abrus
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