Cycad Plant Under AIIMS Study

After finding a neurotoxin (BMAA) in samples taken from Odisha’s forests, AIIMS Bhubaneswar initiated a study on the cycad plant.

Important Points:

• Parkinsonism and other neurological conditions are associated with BMAA.
• Traditionally, indigenous groups in Odisha have consumed it.
• Pay attention to the effects of toxins and safe eating habits.
• Research strikes a balance between biodiversity, culture, and health.

Ancient ‘Living Fossil’ Raises Concern

The cycad plant, which has been around since the time of the dinosaurs, is currently being investigated for potential neurotoxic hazards.

Highlights: 

• Found in Northeastern India, Andhra Pradesh, and Odisha.
• Includes substances such as cycasin and BMAA.
• Utilized in traditional medicine and ethnic cuisine.
• Confirming health links is the goal of AIIMS research.

About the Cycad Plant

Gymnosperms that resemble palms, cycads are found throughout tropical India and are renowned for their slow growth and durability.

Characteristics:

• Woody, unisexual plants that yield cones.
• Cyanobacteria are found in roots, where they fix nitrogen.
• able to withstand fire and adapt to different types of soil.
• frequently referred to as “living fossils.”

Threats and Conservation

Cycads are resilient, but human activities and climate change pose serious conservation risks.

Principal Dangers:

• Habitat damage brought on by mining and deforestation.
• Unlawful gathering for decorative purposes.
• Natural regeneration is impacted by climate stress.
• listed under rules pertaining to biodiversity as vulnerable.

Health and Policy Significance

For tribal communities that consume cycads, the discovery of poisons in them has consequences for public health.

Importance:

• Risks of hazardous exposure are being studied at AIIMS Bhubaneswar.
• Awareness and safe substitutes are necessary.
• Combination of scientific research with conventional knowledge.
• Supports conservation policies that take health into consideration.

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About the Author: Jyoti Verma