upas tree

The upas tree, scientifically known as Antiaris toxicaria, is a tall tropical Asian tree belonging to the mulberry family. Its latex contains poisonous glycosides that have historically been used as an arrow poison. The term "upas" can also refer to a concentrated form of this poisonous juice or latex. In a broader sense, "upas" can metaphorically describe a poisonous or harmful influence or institution. The genus Antiaris includes trees from East India within the Moraceae family, characterized by clustered flowers and fleshy fruits, and is directly associated with the upas tree. While the breadfruit tree (Artocarpus altilis) is also in the mulberry family, it is known for its edible fruit and useful inner bark, wood, and milky juice, distinguishing it from the poisonous upas.123