Some Studies on the Neurotoxic Effect of Palmyrah odiyal Flour

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.