Experimental acute intoxication with ripe fruit of Karwinskia humboldtiana (Tullidora) in rat, guinea-pig, hamster and dog

Previous acute toxicity studies with ‘Tullidora’ in mice showed mainly hepatic and pulmonary complications. We tested samples in rat, guinea-pig, hamster and dog, searching for the mechanism of death. A single oral preparation of ripe fruit of Karwinskia humboldtiana was given to all animals. Clinical signs and histopathology were reproduced in all species except dogs. We propose a selective toxicity of the toxins of this fruit to the lungs and liver.