What is Kodo millet?
Kodo millet, also known as Paspalum scrobiculatum, is cultivated in India and several other countries in Asia and Africa. This tough, drought-resistant crop is well-suited to dry regions and is widely grown across Madhya Pradesh. It serves as a staple food for many tribals and is valued for its high nutritional content, particularly in vitamins and minerals. The millet is also gluten-free, easy to digest, and reportedly high in antioxidants, which makes it popular for various traditional dishes across India.
Historical cases of Kodo poisoning
Kodo millet poisoning was first documented in 1922 when a few human cases were reported in Uttar Pradesh. Over time, cases of poisoning linked to kodo millet have appeared sporadically, mainly affecting animals. In 1983, researchers recorded the first instance of elephant deaths linked to the consumption of kodo millet. Further studies in 1985 identified the mycotoxin cyclopiazonic acid (CPA) as a primary toxin in kodo millet, linking it directly to poisoning cases.
How does Kodo millet become toxic?
Kodo millet becomes toxic mainly due to fungal contamination, which often occurs under wet or humid conditions.
As per research, Kodo poisoning happens due to “the association of the mycotoxin, cyclopiazonic acid (CPA), with kodo millet seeds causing ‘kodua poisoning.” Researchers found that CPA is the principal mycotoxin responsible, making infected kodo grains poisonous, locally referred to as “Matawna Kodoo” or “Matona Kodo” in northern India. Once contamination occurs, the toxic grains remain hazardous despite attempts at processing, as the toxins resist thermal and chemical treatments.
How Kodo poisoning work?
Kodo millet poisoning can severely affect the nervous and cardiovascular systems, showing symptoms like vomiting, unconsciousness, tremors, and rapid pulse. CPA toxicity damages liver cells, disrupts heart function, and inflames the gastrointestinal tract. Veterinarians treating the elephants observed similar symptoms, and previous animal studies have noted symptoms like depression and loss of mobility from exposure to the toxin.
Antidote of Kodo millet poisoning
A report, dated May 22, 1934, by R.C. Morris, F.Z.S. (Fellow of the Zoological Society), stated that elephants died due to kodo millet poisoning. Morris’s report noted that the antidote for this poison is believed to be tamarind water or buttermilk in large quantities. “It is reported that knowledge of its safety for consumption is typically gained by either cooking and tasting a small quantity or observing the condition of cattle during the threshing season. The antidote for this poison is believed to be tamarind water or buttermilk in large quantities,” the report stated.
