Physostigma (Noun)
Meaning
African woody vines: calabar beans.
Classification
Nouns denoting plants.
Examples
- Physostigma is a genus of flowering plants in the legume family, consisting of about six species of African woody vines.
- The physostigma plant is commonly known for its seeds, also referred to as calabar beans, which contain a toxic alkaloid.
- Calabar beans from the physostigma plant have been used for centuries in West African culture and medicine.
- The physostigma seeds contain physostigmine, an alkaloid that can be used to treat various conditions but can also be poisonous if ingested.
- The plant physostigma has a rich history of traditional use, with calabar beans serving as a trial by ordeal in certain West African cultures.