Forensic Relevance of The Suicide Tree “Cerebra Odollam”

Abstract

Cerbera odollam is a powerful toxic plant that is responsible both for suicide and homicide. The seeds are excessively toxic, containing cerberin as the main active cardenolide. Cerberin is difficult to detect in autopsies and its taste can be masked with strong spices. Therefore it is often used in homicide and suicide especially in India. Pathologists would not be able to identify Cerbera poisoning unless there is evidence the victim had eaten the plant. In this article we want to highlight the recent incidence of poisoning, present analytical techniques used as well the recent advances in identification of the cereberin toxin.

Study on clinical profile and predictors of mortality in Cerbera odollam poisoning

“…[ 14 15 ] Majority of cases are suicidal, but there are concerns about its use as a homicidal agent as the bitter taste of seeds can be masked with spices and may be added to food. [ 3 16 ] This plant is largely unknown to the western world, but there are reports of its use in the western countries after ingestion of seeds purchased online. [ 2 12 ]…”