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Dangerous Nature

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It is probably the most dangerous tree on Earth.

Not only its fruits are potentially lethal, even bark, leaves, sap - just everything about manchinel spells trouble.

Native to tropical areas of North and South America, Hippomane mancinella, dubbed manzanita de la muerte by Spanish conquistadores, is a beautiful tree with small, sweet scented apples. But just one bite can be enough. It starts with a peppery feeling in the mouth, that soon becomes a searing pain. The throat becomes so swollen that swallowing and breathing is impossible.

Its sap is as dangerous as its fruits. People have been known to be burnt by the simple drops of rain pouring down from its leaves. According to the Florida Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences, "interaction with or ingestion of any part of this tree may be lethal".

This concentrate of toxins carries usually warning signs where the tree can come in contact with the public. But if during a trekking expedition in the Tropics you happen to see inviting, sweet looking apples dangling from a beautiful tree, change path.

Photo: Phytoimages

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Date: 1 December 2015
Credits Publisher: Spiritual News

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