#HealthCaution

For centuries, Tūmka—the modest seed from the Strychnos nux-blanda tree—has held a mysterious place in Thai folk medicine. Known under a constellation of regional names, including “Kotkakling”, “Khimka”, “Makting”, and “Sa Laeng Jai”, the seed’s reputation oscillates between being a powerful remedy and a perilous poison. With its origins woven through the rural and traditional communities of Thailand, Tūmka continues to intrigue both cultural custodians and biomedical scientists alike. But how much of its legacy stands up to modern science—and what should health-conscious readers know if they encounter this potent botanical?

In the vast herbal apothecary of Thai tradition, few remedies inspire as much fascination—and caution—as “กลอย” (Kloi), known in science as Dioscorea hispida Dennst. Revered by generations for its potent medicinal properties, yet infamous for its toxic nature, Kloi epitomizes the delicate balance between healing and harm inherent in many of nature’s gifts. This enigmatic tuber, found lurking beneath the forest floor across Southeast Asia, has sustained communities during times of hardship, but also demands deep cultural respect and wisdom in its preparation. Today, modern science is peeling back the layers of mystery surrounding Kloi, revealing how ancient detoxification rituals have a foundation in chemistry and pharmacology, while new applications in medicine and cosmetics beckon—but not without important warnings.