Is cassava poisonous? What are the effects and functions of cassava?

Cassava is a perennial shrub with an upright stem and tuberous roots. It is mostly produced in southern China. Its rhizomes can be used as medicine, but some people say that cassava cannot be eaten casually because it is highly toxic. Is this true? Is cassava non-toxic? What are the effects and functions of cassava?

Is cassava poisonous? What are the effects and functions of cassava?

1. Is cassava poisonous?

Cassava is poisonous, and the tuberous roots of this plant are the most toxic. It contains a large amount of starch and some linseed glycoside, among which linseed glycoside is a natural toxic ingredient. After being absorbed by the human body, serious poisoning reactions will occur, with various poisoning symptoms such as abdominal pain and vomiting.

2. How to prevent cassava poisoning

Although cassava is poisonous, if it is handled properly before consumption, the occurrence of poisoning symptoms can be prevented. Before eating cassava, you need to remove the skin and then soak it in clean water to dissolve the cyanogenic glycosides it contains. Most cassavas can remove more than 80% of the toxins after soaking for about six days. If you eat it at this time, the chance of poisoning will be much less.

3. The efficacy and function of cassava

Cassava tastes bitter and is toxic. Its main effects are to reduce swelling and detoxify. Its rhizomes and leaves can all be used as medicine. It can treat human carbuncles, ulcers, swelling, pain and bruises. In addition, it also has a very good therapeutic effect on human scabies and swelling and pain caused by external injuries. It is usually used externally. When using it, you can mash the fresh cassava into a paste and apply it directly externally.