Abstract:
Three decades ago palmyrah (Borassus flabellifer) flour (odiyal) was shown to have
neurotoxic and hepatotoxic effects. Previous studies have shown that both toxicities
can be destroyed by dry heat at 80°C for 45 minutes. This study showed that the
toxin, which has been elusive for so long, is probably due to a mixture of molecules
requiring synergism. Evidence supporting mitochondrial damage is provided
showing that palrnyrah flour water extract causes hyperammonaemia and that the
urea cycle is affected. There is no evidence for muscle and kidney damage as serum
creatinine levels did not change with the neurotoxic symptoms.
