Cocculus Indicus

Cocculus Indicus

Cocculus Indicus, also known as Anamirta cocculus, is a plant species belonging to the family Menispermaceae. It is native to Southeast Asia and the Indian subcontinent. The plant is known for its toxic seeds, which have been historically used for various purposes, including as a fish poison and in traditional medicine.

Description

Cocculus Indicus is a large, woody climber that can grow up to 10 meters in length. The leaves are broad, heart-shaped, and alternately arranged. The plant produces small, greenish-white flowers that are typically unisexual. The fruit is a drupe, containing a single seed that is highly toxic.

Toxicity

The seeds of Cocculus Indicus contain a potent alkaloid called picrotoxin. Picrotoxin is a non-competitive antagonist of the GABA_A receptor, which can lead to convulsions and other neurological effects. Due to its toxicity, Cocculus Indicus has been used as a fish poison and as an insecticide.

Historical Uses

In traditional medicine, Cocculus Indicus has been used to treat a variety of ailments, including fever and rheumatism. However, due to its toxicity, its use is limited and requires caution. The seeds were also historically used to adulterate beer, as they can induce a state of intoxication.

Modern Applications

While the use of Cocculus Indicus in modern medicine is limited due to its toxicity, picrotoxin has been studied for its potential applications in neuroscience research. It is used as a tool to study the function of GABAergic neurotransmission in the brain.

Safety and Precautions

Due to the high toxicity of Cocculus Indicus seeds, they should not be ingested or used without proper knowledge and supervision. Symptoms of poisoning include nausea, vomiting, dizziness, and seizures. In case of suspected poisoning, immediate medical attention is required.

Also see

• Picrotoxin
• GABA receptor
• Traditional medicine
• Toxic plants