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Odisha's Ancient Cycads Reveal Neurotoxin in Traditional Foods

Researchers have made a concerning discovery in Odisha's forests. Ancient cycad plants contain BMAA, a potent neurotoxin linked to serious neurological conditions. Local tribal communities continue consuming these plants in traditional foods like pitha cakes. This has prompted AIIMS Bhubaneswar to launch urgent research into potential health impacts.

Key Points: AIIMS Bhubaneswar Studies Cycad Neurotoxin in Odisha Diets

  • BMAA neurotoxin detected in Odisha's ancient Cycad plant species
  • Local communities consume cycad-based foods like pitha in traditional diets
  • Neurotoxins linked to Parkinsonism and dementia in global case studies
  • AIIMS Bhubaneswar launches multi-dimensional research on neurological disorders
  • Field visits conducted in tribal villages where cycads remain food source
  • International workshop organized with NEHU Shillong on remediation approaches
2 min read

Neurotoxin found in Odisha's ancient Cycad plants; AIIMS Bhubaneswar initiates research on toxicology

AIIMS Bhubaneswar discovers BMAA neurotoxin in Odisha's cycad plants, raising concerns about traditional food consumption and neurological disease links.

"To address this burning query, a distinguished group of national and international scientists and medical experts recently convened - AIIMS Bhubaneswar Statement"

Bhubaneswar, Nov 4

In a significant scientific finding with public health implications, researchers have detected the presence of BMAA (β-N-methylamino-L-alanine), a potential neurotoxin, in several species of ancient Cycad plants growing in Odisha's forests, the AIIMS Bhubaneswar informed in a press statement on Monday.

The discovery has raised concern as some local communities continue to consume cycad-based foods such as pitha, a traditional rice-based cake in Odisha, as part of their customary diet and rituals. These serious concerns over whether such consumption practices are directly linked to an increased incidence of neurological diseases remain a critical question that has prompted new research initiatives at AIIMS, Bhubaneswar. "To address this burning query, a distinguished group of national and international scientists and medical experts recently convened at an international workshop titled 'Cycad-Related Neurological Disorders: A Multi-Dimensional Approach to Its Remediation'.

The event was jointly organised by the Department of Neurology, AIIMS Bhubaneswar, and the North-Eastern Hill University (NEHU), Shillong," the statement added.

According to the AIIMS, Bhubaneswar, the workshop highlighted the potential health risks associated with cycads, an ancient plant species that coexisted with dinosaurs more than 300 million years ago. Often used today as ornamental flora, cycad species contain potent toxins including Cycacin, BMAA (β-N-methylamino-L-alanine), and MAM (methylazoxymethanol).

These compounds have been linked to neurodegenerative disorders such as Parkinsonism, motor neuron disease, and dementia in regions like the Guam Peninsula (USA) and the Kii Peninsula (Japan), where cycads have traditionally been part of local diets.

As part of the workshop, the experts conducted field visits to villages, including Dhuanali in Khordha district and Gangamunda and Suaginali in Kamakhyanagar area of Dhenkanal district. In these areas, local tribal communities still rely on the Cycas plant--known locally as Veru (Odia name: Aruguna)--as a traditional food source.

During the visits, experts interacted with villagers, patients, and local healthcare providers to better understand the possible neurological and related health issues arising from the consumption of cycad seeds.

- IANS

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Reader Comments

R
Rohit P
Great initiative by AIIMS Bhubaneswar! Traditional knowledge is important but we must adapt when science shows us new evidence. Hope they find safe alternatives for these communities.
M
Meera T
As someone from Odisha, I've seen these plants everywhere. Never knew they could be dangerous. The government should provide proper education about this in local languages.
D
David E
Interesting research! The international collaboration aspect is promising. Similar studies in Guam and Japan should help accelerate findings. Hope they find solutions soon.
A
Aditya G
While I appreciate the research, I hope they're also considering that traditional preparation methods might reduce toxicity. Our ancestors weren't foolish - there must be reasons these practices continued for generations.
S
Sarah B
This is exactly the kind of public health research India needs more of! Connecting traditional practices with modern science can save many lives. Kudos to the researchers! 👏
K
Karthik V
Important finding, but let's not create panic. Many traditional foods have toxins that are neutralized by proper cooking methods. Research should focus on safe consumption practices rather than complete avoidance.

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