Calabar Bean
OTHER NAME(S): Chop Nut, Esere Nut, Faba Calabarica, Fève de Calabar, Haba de Calabar, Haricot de l'Ordalie, Legume, Ordeal Bean, Physostigma, Physostigma venenosum, Frijol Calabar, Fève de Calabar
Overview
Calabar bean (Physostigma venenosum) is a plant. It has been traditionally used to make medicine, but the seed is extremely poisonous and can be deadly.
Calabar bean contains a chemical that affects signals between muscles and nerves. This chemical affects many parts of the body.
People use calabar bean for constipation, epilepsy, and many other conditions, but there is no good scientific evidence to support these uses. Using calabar bean is also unsafe.
Uses
We currently have no information for Calabar Bean overview.
Side Effects
When taken by mouth: Calabar bean is unsafe. It is extremely toxic and can cause paralysis, seizures, coma, and death.
Precautions
When taken by mouth: Calabar bean is unsafe. It is extremely toxic and can cause paralysis, seizures, coma, and death.
Pregnancy and breast-feeding: Calabar bean is unsafe when taken by mouth. It may cause severe side effects, including death. Don't use it.
Interactions
Minor Interaction
Be watchful with this combination
- Drying medications (Anticholinergic drugs) interacts with Calabar BeanCalabar bean can increase a chemical in the body called acetylcholine. Acetylcholine plays a big part in many important body functions. Some medications, called anticholinergic drugs, block the effects of acetylcholine in the body. Taking calabar bean might decrease the effects of anticholinergic drugs.
Dosing
There isn't enough reliable information to know what an appropriate dose of calabar bean might be. Calabar bean might also be unsafe. Speak with a healthcare provider before using.
References
- The Review of Natural Products by Facts and Comparisons. St. Louis, MO: Wolters Kluwer Co., 1999.
- McEvoy GK, ed. AHFS Drug Information. Bethesda, MD: American Society of Health-System Pharmacists, 1998.
- Gruenwald J, Brendler T, Jaenicke C. PDR for Herbal Medicines. 1st ed. Montvale, NJ: Medical Economics Company, Inc., 1998.
