As a botanist with a focus on toxicology, I often get asked about which fruits might be harmful to humans. It's an important question, as it's crucial to know what we can and cannot safely consume. While many fruits are safe and even beneficial for our health, there are indeed some that contain toxins that can pose a risk to human health if not properly prepared or consumed in large quantities. Let's delve into the subject. ### Tomatoes Contrary to popular belief, tomatoes themselves are not poisonous. However, it's the leaves and stems that contain solanine, a naturally occurring toxic compound. Eating a whole tomato is safe, but consuming the green parts or unripe fruit can lead to symptoms like nausea and vomiting. ### Apples, Cherries, and Apricots The seeds of these fruits contain a compound called amygdalin, which can release cyanide when ingested. While you'd have to eat a significant amount of seeds to reach toxic levels, it's still a good idea to avoid eating them. The fruit flesh itself is perfectly safe to eat. ### Kidney Beans Kidney beans contain a toxic protein called phytohaemagglutinin. This substance can cause severe gastrointestinal distress if the beans are consumed raw or undercooked. Cooking the beans thoroughly neutralizes the toxin. ### Rhubarb The leaves of the rhubarb plant contain oxalic acid, which can be harmful if ingested in large amounts. While the stalks are safe to eat, it's best to avoid the leaves. ### Asparagus Asparagus is generally safe to eat, but some people may experience an allergic reaction. It's also worth noting that asparagus can cause your urine to smell due to compounds it contains. ### Cashews Cashews are not poisonous, but the shell of the cashew nut contains a resin called anacardic acid, which can cause skin irritation. It's why you typically find cashews already shelled in the store. ### **Secretly Poisonous Plants We Eat All the Time** Many plants that we consume regularly contain compounds that can be harmful if not prepared correctly. For example: - Potatoes contain solanine in their green parts, which can be toxic if ingested. - Cassava roots are a staple in many parts of the world, but they must be processed to remove cyanogenic glycosides, which can release cyanide. - Green Beans are safe to eat, but like many plants, they contain small amounts of various compounds that can be harmful in large quantities. ### Conclusion While it's true that some fruits and plants can be toxic, the key is understanding how to prepare and consume them safely. Cooking, peeling, and removing seeds can often neutralize the toxins. It's also important to be aware of the signs of food poisoning and to seek medical help if you suspect you've consumed something harmful. Now, let's proceed to the translation into Chinese. read more >>

Here are some you may not have known about.Tomato. I know, I just said the tomato isn't poisonous. ... Apples, Cherries, and Apricots. The seeds of all of these fruits are not considered edible; they're hard, bitter, and unpleasant. ... Kidney Beans. ... Rhubarb. ... Asparagus. ... Cashews. ... 6 Secretly Poisonous Plants We Eat All the Time.read more >>