Phytohemagglutinins (Lectins)

Lectin proteins (phytohemagglutinins) are proteins present in leguminous species that can agglutinate red blood cells in various species of animals. These lectins are in many species of beans, especially red kidney beans and castor beans. Poisoning can occur if those beans are eaten raw or not completely cooked.

References
Back to List of Endogenous Plant Toxins

Prepared Summer 1997 by Bernadene Magnuson, Ph.D.
University of Idaho, Dept. of Food Science and Toxicology - EXTOXNET FAQ Team.