cycasin
/ˈsaɪkəsɪn/
noun
- A toxic chemical found in cycad plants that can cause liver damage and nervous system problems if eaten.
- Scientists study cycasin because it can cause diseases similar to those seen in some human populations.
- Farmers must be careful to remove cycasin from cycad flour before using it as food.
- The seeds of the sago palm contain cycasin, which is poisonous to humans and animals.