Calabar bean

Calabar Bean

Calabar Bean (pronunciation: /kæləbɑːr biːn/), also known as the Ordeal Bean or Chop Nut, is a highly toxic plant native to West Africa, specifically in the region of Calabar.

Etymology

The term "Calabar Bean" is derived from the city of Calabar in Nigeria, where the plant is commonly found. The alternative name "Ordeal Bean" comes from its historical use in trial by ordeal to determine the guilt of a person accused of a crime.

Description

The Calabar Bean plant, scientifically known as Physostigma venenosum, belongs to the family Fabaceae. It is a large, climbing perennial plant with a woody stem that can reach up to 50 feet in height. The plant produces large, purple flowers and distinctive, bean-like seeds. These seeds, or "beans", are highly toxic and contain the alkaloid physostigmine.

Toxicity

The primary toxic compound in Calabar Beans is physostigmine, a potent inhibitor of the enzyme acetylcholinesterase. Ingestion of the beans can lead to symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, and in severe cases, respiratory failure and death.

Historical Use

Historically, Calabar Beans were used in a trial by ordeal in the Calabar region. The accused would be forced to ingest a bean, and survival was taken as a sign of innocence. This practice was outlawed by the British in the 19th century.

Related Terms

• Physostigma venenosum
• Fabaceae
• Physostigmine
• Acetylcholinesterase
• Trial by ordeal

External links

• Medical encyclopedia article on Calabar bean
• Wikipedia's article - Calabar bean

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