Can peeling ginkgo nuts cause poisoning?
Mar 29, 2023
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Yang Shuwen
Introduction
Handling ginkgo nuts with bare hands will not cause poisoning, but may lead to allergic reactions. The skin of ginkgo nuts contains a large amount of ginkgolic acid, a highly allergenic substance. Peeling ginkgo nuts by hand may result in skin redness, swelling, and itching, as well as rashes and peeling skin. In severe cases, it may even cause skin erosion.
Handling ginkgo nuts with bare hands will not cause poisoning, but may trigger allergic reactions.
The skin of ginkgo nuts contains a large amount of ginkgolic acid, a highly allergenic substance. Handling ginkgo nuts without protection may lead to skin redness, swelling, itching, and other allergic reactions, as well as rashes or peeling. In severe cases, it may even result in skin erosion. It is recommended to wear gloves when shelling ginkgo nuts.
Ginkgo phenol is a toxic substance. Consuming raw, unprocessed ginkgo nuts or eating excessive amounts may lead to poisoning, causing symptoms such as dizziness, nausea, vomiting, and pallor. It is advised to drink plenty of water to induce vomiting, followed by taking lactulose oral solution or mannitol for bowel cleansing under medical guidance. In severe cases, symptoms may include coma, convulsions, difficulty breathing, and even life-threatening conditions. Early gastric lavage under medical supervision—using water, potassium permanganate solution, or activated charcoal solution—can improve patient outcomes.
To prevent poisoning, it is recommended to remove both the outer skin and pulp before consuming only the ginkgo kernel. Additionally, consumption should be moderate and not excessive.
