Lathyrism is caused by excessive consumption of

Lathyrism (neurolathyrism) is a neurodegenerative disorder caused by long-term ingestion of seeds of certain Lathyrus species, principally Lathyrus sativus (grass pea, known in India as khesari or kesari dal). The seeds contain the glutamate-analogue neurotoxin β-oxalyl-L-α,β-diaminopropionic acid (β-ODAP or BOAA), which produces progressive weakness and paralysis of the lower limbs by damaging motor neurons [1]. Historic and contemporary reports link outbreaks of lathyrism to prolonged consumption of khesari dal—especially as a staple during famines—leading to bans and public-health concern in affected regions. The toxin’s excitotoxic and oxidative mechanisms have been described as the basis for neuronal injury.

Sources

1. [1] https://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/immunology-and-microbiology/lathyrus