Description
Rivea Corymbosa
Rivea corymbosa is a woody perennial vine, which creeps and climbs on trees. Its leaves are heart shaped and the flowers are tunnel shaped and white. It is believed that the plant is native to Mexico, however it is very common in other regions such as Cuba and the North American Gulf coast. It can also be found throughout Central America as well as in the South American Amazon basin of Columbia. The plant cannot survive frost and thrives in conditions that are warm, tropical and with moist, wet soil. The seeds are small, oval and brown in color. The flowers will only produce two seeds per flower.
Rivea corymbosa is a fast growing plant that loves the water and sunlight. It can be found growing abundantly in the mountains of Oaxaca, Mexico, where it is known for its traditional usage as a shamanic plant.
Warning
The Dutch National Institute for Public Health and the Environment (RIVM) has made a risk assessment and warns to not consume these seeds.
The following text comes from the RIVM:
The use of these seeds is unsafe. They can cause hallucinogenic effects, nausea, vomiting, elevated heart rate, elevated blood pressure, (severe) fatigue and lethargy. These health effects can occur even when the seeds are consumed at the recommended dose. This is the conclusion of a risk assessment performed by RIVM.
source: https://www.rivm.nl/bibliotheek/rapporten/2019-0210.pdf