Uses & Effectiveness

We currently have no information for CALABAR BEAN overview.

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.

The Calabar bean, also known as the chop nut or ordeal bean, contains physostigmine, a compound used as a treatment for glaucoma.

Side Effects

When taken by mouth: Calabar bean is unsafe. It is extremely toxic and can cause paralysis, seizures, coma, and death.

Interactions

Minor Interaction

Be watchful with this combination

• Drying medications (Anticholinergic drugs) interacts with CALABAR BEAN

  Calabar 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.

Special Precautionsand Warnings

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.

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.