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Health warning – not for consumptionLamtoro contains the amino acid mimosine, which is toxic when eaten in larger amounts or over a longer time. We do not recommend consuming lamtoro leaves or seeds as a tea or in any other preparation, especially not for children, pregnant women or breastfeeding women. If you have eaten large amounts and feel unwell, please see a doctor.
Scientific nameLeucaena leucocephala
IndonesianLamtoro, Petai Cina
Basic information: Lamtoro (Leucaena leucocephala) is a fast-growing, nitrogen-fixing tree of the legume family. It is planted for shade, as a living fence, for firewood, as green manure and as fodder for livestock. The tree has feathery leaves, white ball-shaped flowers and flat pods with many seeds.
Uses and Safety
- In some regions, young pods and seeds of lamtoro (petai cina) are traditionally eaten as a side dish. Because of its mimosine content, we do not recommend eating lamtoro leaves or seeds, and we do not use it as a tea.
- Lamtoro leaves and seeds are rich in protein, but they also contain the toxic amino acid mimosine. Mimosine is harmful when eaten in larger amounts or over a longer time; it can cause hair loss and thyroid problems in animals and is toxic to people. For this reason lamtoro is used mainly as fodder for ruminants in controlled amounts.
- Important warning: Please do not consume lamtoro leaves, seeds or teas made from it, especially not children, pregnant women and breastfeeding women. We do not offer lamtoro as a product.
Please note: The information on this page is provided for general interest and education only. Statements about nutrition, traditional use and research do not mean that a plant or product treats, cures or prevents any disease, and they are not medical advice. Our plant products are foods and herbal teas, not medicines. If you are pregnant, breastfeeding, take medication or have a health condition, please ask a doctor before using any plant for health purposes.