Scientists in Odisha have found a possible brain‑toxin, called BMAA (β‑N‑methylamino‑L‑alanine), in several types of ancient cycad plants that grow wild in the state’s forests. The discovery, announced by AIIMS Bhubaneswar, raises new questions about the safety of local foods that use these plants.
Cycads are primitive gymnosperms that have existed since the age of dinosaurs. Although they are now prized as ornamental plants, they can contain several toxic chemicals – BMAA, Cycacin, and methylazoxymethanol (MAM) – that have been linked to neurological disorders such as Parkinsonism, motor neuron disease and dementia. Similar links were first reported in parts of the United States and Japan where cycads were a staple of the diet.
In Odisha, some tribal communities still eat foods made with cycad seeds. “Pitha,” a rice‑based cake that is part of local customs and rituals, may be prepared with these seeds. If the brain‑toxin present in cycle plants is ingested regularly, it could increase the risk of neurological disease, the researchers say.
To investigate the issue, experts from AIIMS Bhubaneswar and North‑Eastern Hill University (NEHU) in Shillong ran an international workshop titled “Cycad‑Related Neurological Disorders: A Multi‑Dimensional Approach to Its Remediation.” The meeting brought together national and international scientists, neurologists and public‑health specialists.
During the workshop, the team made field trips to villages in Khordha and Dhenkanal districts – including Dhuanali, Gangamunda and Suaginali. In these areas, tribal families still rely on the cycad plant, locally called Veru or Aruguna, as a traditional food source. The experts talked with villagers, local health workers and patients to learn about any health problems linked to cycad consumption.
The findings suggest that further research and possible regulation of cycad foods may be necessary to protect community health in Odisha and elsewhere. The AIIMS team says it will continue studying the link between BMAA exposure and neurological disease, and hopes to guide safe dietary practices for communities that rely on this ancient plant.
Source: ianslive
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