The strychnine tree

Description:

The strychnine tree (Strychnos nux-vomica L.) also known as nux vomica, grows in open habitats. Its leaves are ovate and 2–3.5 inches (5.1–8.9 cm) in size. It is a major source of the highly poisonous alkaloids strychnine and brucine, derived from the seeds inside the tree's round, green to orange fruit. The seeds contain approximately 1.5% strychnine, and the dried blossoms contain 1.0%. However, the tree's bark also contains brucine and other poisonous compounds.

Habitat:

It is a deciduous tree native to India, southeast Asia.

Notes:

Found in Pullazhi in Thrissur District, Kerala, India I my young days, I have seen people grind the bark, add to cooked rice and give to stray dogs to kill them.