1. Protein-, peptide-, and lectin-containing plants: (A) The castor bean plant. The seedpods come in bunches, two of which appear near the center of the image. Each seedpod typically contains three seeds. Inset: Castor beans (Ricinus communus) which contain the toxalbumin ricin. By interfering with protein synthesis, ricin may cause multiorgan system failure when administered parenterally. However, its oral absorption is poor, and most oral poisonings cause gastroenteritis. (B) Rosary pea (Abrus precatorius) containing abrin, a toxalbumin that inhibits protein synthesis. The peas are shown strung together as a rosary. (C) Pokeweed (Phytolacca americana) has a large rootstock. The unripe berries contain phytolaccatoxin that produces gastroenteritis, but the mature, purple berries are often consumed. (Images contributed by the New York City Poison Center Toxicology Fellowship Program.)
Source: Section 1-L Natural Toxins and Envenomations, Goldfrank's Toxicologic Emergencies, 9e
Citation: Nelson LS, Lewin NA, Howland M, Hoffman RS, Goldfrank LR, Flomenbaum NE. Goldfrank's Toxicologic Emergencies, 9e; 2011 Available at: Accessed: October 06, 2017
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