The Sago palm is one of the most popular landscaping plants around the world. It is also used for food and medicine by some cultures.

 I know that sounds a bit strange because the cycad is highly toxic and highly poisonous. Most people are familiar with this plant’s poisonous nature. Consumption of this exotic plant that contains toxic compounds can lead to severe health problems and death.

Natives of the some islands in the Pacific and Indian ocean have different techniques for the removal the toxins from Sago palms. After leaching out the toxins they consume trunks, leaves and seeds. The leaves are used to make a tea. A starch can be derived from the heart or pith of the trunk. The starch is used for making puddings, pancakes, noodles and bread. The heart of the trunk is also can be eaten baked. The drupes are also eaten raw or cooked.

The Sago palm is used in medicine by the poor natives as a natural remedy for medical conditions. Unfortunately, the consumption of this plant even after removing toxins is the cause of higher incidents of chronic nervous disorders like Parkinson’s Disease.

The Sago palm tree is a very beautiful plant, but all its parts are toxic. I recommend  to be very cautious and keep your dogs and cats away from the attractive plant.

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