The Mexican Non-toxic Jatropha curcas L., Food Resource or Biofuel?

Date
2013
Authors
Valdes-Rodriguez, Ofelia Andrea
Sanchez-Sanchez, Odilon
Perez-Vazquez, Arturo
Caplan, Joshua
Contributor
Advisor
Department
Instructor
Depositor
Speaker
Researcher
Consultant
Interviewer
Annotator
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
Botany Department, University of Hawaii at Manoa
Volume
Number/Issue
Starting Page
Ending Page
Alternative Title
Abstract
Jatropha curcas L. is a promising natural resource which has been promoted globally for biodiesel production by policy makers and researchers in tropical and subtropical countries. However, both J. curcas seeds and oil have been found to be toxic to humans and domestic animals when consumed. A non-toxic genotype of J. curcas has been reported from some rural communities in southern Mexico, and is suitable for human consumption. This non-toxic germplasm has been used in traditional Totonacan cuisine in Mexico. However, increasing demand for J. curcas to be used in biofuel production is exerting pressure on the non-toxic genotype. In this work we analyze the possible origins and dispersal of non-toxic Jatropha by the Totonaca culture; the traditional uses of J. curcas seeds as a food; its status with respect to the Mexican commercial forestry regulations; and the risks associated with the demands of biofuels on this Mexican germplasm.
Description
Keywords
Citation
Valdes-Rodriguez, O., Sanchez-Sanchez, O., Perez-Vazquez, A., Caplan, J.. 2013. The Mexican Non-toxic Jatropha curcas L., Food Resource or Biofuel?. Ethnobotany Research & Applications 11: 1-8.
Extent
8 pages
Format
Geographic Location
Time Period
Related To
Table of Contents
Rights
Rights Holder
Local Contexts
Email libraryada-l@lists.hawaii.edu if you need this content in ADA-compliant format.