An unknown poisonous beans made seriously ill and unconscious 20 villagers including 9 kids and women in Mian Channu on Sunday.
According to the 24News HD TV channel, the health condition of 20 people deteriorated after eating poisonous food in the village of 124/15-L of Mian Channu.

The victims were rushed to Tehsil Head Quarters (THQ) Mian Channu from the locals where their condition is out of danger now.
Doctors of the THQ Mian Channu confirmed that all the victims are undergoing treatment and their condition is improving.
The villagers said the children ate the unknown poisonous fruit after bathing in the tube well pond and they also took it to their home where the family members also ate and become unconscious.

On receiving the information, Assistant Commissioner and DSP also reached the hospital and started an investigation of the incident.

According to the channel, the name of the poisonous bean is called "Harnoli" among the locals.

What is Harnoli or Castor Beans

Castor is a plant that produces seeds (beans). Castor oil is produced from ripe seeds that have had their outer covering (hull) removed. Castor oil has been used as a medicine for centuries.

Castor oil is used for constipation and bowel preparation prior to colonoscopy, childbirth, and many other conditions, but there is no good scientific evidence to support these uses.

The hull of the castor seed contains a deadly poison called ricin. This is why the hull must be removed before use. Ricin has been tested as a chemical warfare agent. Weapons-grade ricin is purified and produced in particles that are so small they can be breathed in.

How does it work?

Castor bean is used to make castor oil, which is a strong laxative. In pregnancy, castor oil might start labour by stimulating the uterus.