Frequently (and not so frequently) Asked Questions
BRIEF: Is Tonka bean flavoring poisonous?
QUESTION:
I have been using a flavoring which was purchased in Mexico. It does not quite
smell like vanilla, but bottled as vanilla. It is a clear liquid. Is Tonka bean
flavoring poisonous? and what are the symptoms. I have been experiencing inner-
ear type symptoms, double vision, ringing in ears, pain in pallete and teeth,
dizziness, feeling of falling. I have just had an ENG test for vestibular
disorder, and it is negative.I have gone to a neruologist, and maybe I have a
toxicity to something. My Chiropractor suggests toxicity testing. Do you have
any suggestions?
ANSWER:
All sorts of things are sold in Mexico as vanilla extract; I wouldn't touch any
of them with a ten foot pole. One of the favorite ones turns out to be a
dangerous anticoagulant (produced from coumarin) and the other symptoms you
describe are the same as that experienced by animals eating 7-hydroxycoumarin
(from buckeyes, for example). The vanilla substitute you purchased, tonka bean
(Dipyeryx odorata) extract, is a rich source of this dangerous class of
compounds and has been banned for flavor use in the US since 1954.
I hope you have a rapid recovery.