Can I eat laburnum seeds? | EatWeirdThings.com

Can I eat laburnum seeds?

Quick Answer

No

Laburnum seeds are highly toxic if ingested. They contain a poison called cytisine, which can cause severe vomiting, convulsions, and even death in extreme cases.

Illustration of moldy bread

What Is It?

Laburnum, sometimes called golden chain or golden rain, is a genus of two species of small trees in the pea family. They are native to the mountains of southern Europe from France to the Balkans. The seeds of these trees are highly toxic.

How to Tell

Symptoms of laburnum seed poisoning include nausea, headache, vomiting, stomach pain, and in severe cases, sleepiness, convulsions, coma, or even death.

Why It Can Be Risky

The risk of consuming laburnum seeds is high due to their toxicity. Even a small amount can cause severe health problems.

  • Nausea and vomiting
  • Abdominal pain
  • Headache
  • Convulsions
  • Coma
  • Death in severe cases