cerberin

chemical compound

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Last updated

July 23, 2026

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The term "cerberin" refers to a potent chemical compound found in the pong pong tree (Cerbera odollam), also known as the suicide tree. This plant, native to India and Southeast Asia, is recognized as one of Asia's most poisonous flora. The genus name Cerbera is a nod to Cerberus, the mythical watchdog of the underworld, reflecting the plant's deadly nature.1

Cerberin is a cardiac glycoside that significantly impacts the heart. Ingestion of even a single seed can be fatal to humans, causing symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, a slow heart rate (bradycardia), and palpitations, ultimately leading to death. While immediate medical treatment or a small dose may allow for survival, the pong pong tree is responsible for many deaths annually. Atropine, derived from belladonna, is a known treatment for cerberin poisoning.1

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How Deadly Is the Pong Pong Tree from The White Lotus?
…pong’s particular toxin, known as cerberin, causes nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea as the body attempts to purge the poison, then bradycardia (slow heart rate), palpitations, and death. The first symptoms can take as little as 20 minutes to appear, and death can take from one to six hours or more…
Read More
…pong’s particular toxin, known as cerberin, causes nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea as the body attempts to purge the poison, then bradycardia (slow heart rate), palpitations, and death. The first symptoms can take as little as 20 minutes to appear, and death can take from one to six hours or more…
Read More