Introduction to Abrus precatorius or American licorice
abrus precatorius, commonly known as American licorice, Asian coral bean, rosary bean or saga, is a perennial climbing plant native to tropical and subtropical regions of Asia and Africa, although it is currently present in many other warm areas of the world.
This species, belonging to the Fabaceae family, is appreciated for its intensely red seeds with a black spot, which have an important symbolic and cultural load. However, it is crucial to highlight that The entire plant, and especially the seeds, are highly toxic due to the presence of the protein abrin.
American licorice is often found in forests, thickets, roadsides, fences, sandy areas near beaches, and wastelands. Its presence is quickly recognized by the unique appearance of its seeds and the lushness of its foliage.
Taxonomy and common names
- Kingdom: Plant
- Family: Fabaceae
- Gender: Abrus
- Species: abrus precatorius
It is widely known as American licorice, Asian coralillo, rosary bean, saga, peronilla, Antillean licorice, Indian licorice, guairuro, bugallón, among other names depending on the region.
Other international names include Crab's eye, Jequirity, Jumbie bead, Rosary pea in English; saga in Indonesian; 相思子 in Chinese; and ウアズキ in Japanese.
Comprehensive botanical description
- Plant type: Fast-growing, twig-like perennial climber.
- Level: It can reach up to 10 meters in length under ideal conditions, although the most common length is between 5 and 10 meters.
- Stems: Thin, flexible, woody at the base and herbaceous at the top, ideal for climbing on natural or artificial supports.
- Sheets: Compound, pinnate, alternate, with short petioles; they usually have 20 to 30 pairs of bright green elliptical leaflets, which increase in size towards the end.
- Flowers: Grouped in axillary clusters of 3 to 8 cm, they have small pink, purple-red or lilac corollas, with a tubular shape.
- Fruits: Brown, globe-shaped legumes, containing 3 to 7 conspicuous seeds.
- Seeds: Small, red, and shiny with a black spot at one end; about 6 mm long, very uniform and attractive, but highly toxic.
Due to its similarity, it can be confused with seeds of Ormosia coccinea, although the latter are larger and more irregular in shape. They can also resemble the seeds of Rhynchosia precatoria y Sophora secundiflora.
Geographic distribution and habitat
- Origin: It is believed to be native to the mountainous and tropical areas of India and Southeast Asia, extending to Africa and America (including the Antilles and Mexico).
- Preferred habitats: Warm and humid environments such as tropical forests, roadsides, coastal areas, fences, wastelands, and sandy soils near beaches.
- Adaptability: It has managed to naturalize in many subtropical and tropical regions worldwide.
American licorice can be found on both the Pacific and Gulf of Mexico coasts, and is common in areas far removed from its native habitat due to human dispersal.
Characteristics and toxicity of Abrus precatorius seeds
The American licorice seeds They are especially known for their intense red color and black spot, which makes them highly valued in jewelry and for the production of rosaries and amulets, mainly in countries in Asia, Africa and Latin America.
They are however extremely toxic due to abrin, a protein lectin similar to ricin but much more potent. A single chewed or punctured seed can cause death in humans and animals, as even a tiny amount of abrin is enough to be lethal.
La abrin It works by blocking protein synthesis in cells, destroying ribosomes and causing multiple organ failure. Toxicity depends on the ingestion and the condition of the seed (if the seed coat is damaged, the risk is much higher).
The symptoms of poisoning These side effects may include vomiting, diarrhea, severe abdominal pain, weakness, seizures, liver failure, and eventually death. Superficial contact is not usually dangerous since abrin does not penetrate intact skin, but exposure through wounds, mucous membranes, or ingestion is highly dangerous.
Ornamental, cultural and magical uses
- Ornamentation: Due to their intense color and shine, the seeds are widely used in making bracelets, necklaces, and beads, as well as in crafts and decorative ornaments. It is essential to avoid handling by children or pets.
- Jewelry and rituals: In various cultures, Abrus precatorius seeds are used to make rosaries and religious objects, as well as amulets for good luck and protection against the evil eye.
- Popular culture: In Afro-Cuban Santeria, this plant is very important and is included in religious practices, being considered one of the essential species for the children of Obbatala.
- Superstitions: It is believed in several cultures that the seeds of this plant have magical and protective properties.
It is important to emphasize that, despite its ornamental and symbolic value, The toxicity of the seeds implies a very high risk If used without caution, whether in jewelry or as amulets.
Properties and uses in traditional medicine
- Traditional uses: In the folk medicine of various cultures, different parts of the plant have been used in infusions, poultices, and decoctions, although always in minimal doses and under expert supervision, given its toxicity.
- Popular treatments: The leaves are used for fever, colds, coughs, and wound healing. The roots are used to treat jaundice and as a remedy for snakebites, abdominal pain, and as an expectorant.
- Attributed properties: It is considered to have anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, analgesic, antidiabetic, and neuroprotective properties, although scientific evidence does not support its safety or recommend its home use.
- Alternative medicine: It is used in paste form for sores, wounds, leucoderma, and to treat dermatological conditions. In Ayurvedic medicine, it is attributed with aphrodisiac and laxative effects, and is used for migraines, dysmenorrhea, and lymphomas, among other ailments.
- Vet: Traditionally, it has also been used in the treatment of fractures in animals.
Although many remedies are based on tradition and empirical experience, Uninformed handling can lead to serious risks and home use is not recommended due to the danger of the plant's active ingredient.
Propagation, cultivation and care of American licorice
- Climate requirements: It prefers warm, humid climates and is ideal for tropical and subtropical environments. It tolerates full sun and partial shade, although it thrives in full sun.
- Floor type: It prefers fertile, well-drained, and slightly moist soils. It does not tolerate waterlogging.
- Irrigation: Moderate, humidity should be maintained without excess.
- Support: It requires climbing structures such as trellises, fences, pergolas or even trees.
- Pruning: Regular pruning is recommended to control growth and prevent uncontrolled spread.
- Spread: It is grown from seeds, which germinate easily in moist, well-aerated substrates at moderate temperatures (20-25°C), emerging in 1-2 weeks. No pre-germination treatment is necessary.
- Caution: All sowing and seed handling operations must be carried out with gloves and contact with mucous membranes must be avoided.
Precautions and associated risks
El accidental contact Eating poisoned seeds, or ingesting them, can cause serious health problems. Symptoms of poisoning appear several hours after consumption and require urgent medical attention. There are no specific antidotes, and treatment is symptomatic and supportive.
- All parts of the plant are toxic, especially the seeds.
- Accidental consumption can cause death in humans and domestic animals.
- If poisoning is suspected, medical assistance should be sought immediately.
- Avoid direct contact with the seeds, wear gloves, and keep any residue out of reach of vulnerable people.
- Do not use seeds in crafts, jewelry, or everyday decorations if safe handling cannot be guaranteed.
Cultural observations and global distribution
Abrus precatorius has a deep traditional and mythical significance in various cultures. In some countries, its seeds are believed to bring good fortune or protect against bad luck, and they have been used in rituals and spiritual practices, especially in Asia and Africa. Its visual appeal has also fostered its artistic and ornamental use over the centuries.
Currently, the plant can be considered invasive in some ecosystems due to its great capacity to adapt and expand in warm habitats. Therefore, its growth must be controlled and its irresponsible spread prevented.
Varieties, synonyms and curiosities
- Botanical varieties:
- Abrus precatorius africanus
- Abrus precatorius precatorius
- Synonyms: It includes names such as Abrus abrus, Abrus cyaneus, Abrus maculatus, Abrus minor, Glycine abrus and others that appear in the botanical literature.
The seeds, in addition to their ornamental use, have been used as a unit of weight in markets in India and other countries, given their uniformity in size and weight.
El American licorice It is a fascinating plant from both a botanical and cultural perspective. Its beauty and symbolism contrast with the danger posed by its seeds. Growing it and enjoying its presence in the garden requires, above all, responsibility and knowledgeWhen using it in art or rituals, it is essential to value tradition, but never neglect basic safety rules.