Grown commercially for a chemical compound (Colchicine and related alkaloids). Used traditionally to treat intestinal worms, bruises, infertility, skin problems and impotence. Sap from the leaf tip has been used for spots by Tswana and Masai labourers.

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Colchicine, the principal constituent, is used for treating gout, as it inhibits the action of leucocytes which, in phagocytosing urate crystals, cause the inflammation. Multiple traditional medicinal uses of this plant in Africa and India, but sometimes with fatal results

Neuwinger, HD. (1996). African Ethnobotany: Poisons & Drugs, Chapman & Hall p.554-561

In Africa and India it has been used as a poison for hunting, abortion, suicide and murder.

Wink, Michael & Ben-Erik van Wyk (2008). Mind-Altering and Poisonous Plants of the World. Timber Press

Toxic due to colchicine content.

Professor Anthony Dayan, 2022

Tubers used as an arrow poison, for murder (in Sri Lanka, Burma and India) and suicide. Also used to poison livestock. Multiple traditional medicine uses, but several fatalities are recorded as a result of such use. Principle alkaloid is colchicine, in highest concentration in the leaves. 'One of the most virulent poisons and most drastic purgatives'. Poison acts on heart, nervous system, gastrointestinal system and cell division. Death is slow, with hypotension, vomiting, diarrhoea, respiratory arrest.

Neuwinger, HD. (1996). African Ethnobotany: Poisons & Drugs, Chapman & Hall p.554-561

Colchicine, the principal constituent, is used for treating gout, as it inhibits the action of leucocytes which, in phagocytosing urate crystals, cause the inflammation.

Neuwinger, HD. (1996). African Ethnobotany: Poisons & Drugs, Chapman & Hall p.559-561