Will swallowing a seed result in a plant growing in my stomach?
Short Answer: Of course not! But, some fruit pits are deadly.
By Gabrielle Rancifer March 9, 2022
At some point during many people’s childhoods, they heard about the dangers of swallowing plant seeds; and depending on the seed type — lemon, watermelon, orange, etc. — it could sprout into a bush or tree. No matter how comical adults may find it, this question still terrifies many kids. Luckily, the science behind the human body prevents us from turning into mythical treefolk.
“Our bodies are too amazing to let that happen,” said Ernest Chiodo, a Chicago-based physician, attorney, toxicologist, engineer, and hygienist. “Stomach acid almost always destroys any chance of germination.”
For seeds to take root, they need the perfect amount of moisture, temperature, light, and nutrients. Soil contains the necessary materials for moisture retention, which is critical to seed germination. Acidic substances prohibit successful plant cultivation because they halt growth and photosynthesis.
“Your stomach’s environment will break down the seed before it can grow,” said Ezra Lee, the lead Farm and Program Coordinator at Growing Home Inc. “But, heavy-duty armored seeds can still get pretty far into your digestive system.”
So why the myth? Well, these durable seeds are dangerous if ingested. The seeds of stone fruits — like cherries, peaches, mangos, apricots, lychees, olives, and plums — are inside their pits. Stones contain lethal doses of cyanide. While a cherry pit will not sprout a tree, a chewed one can poison you. Perhaps the myth was created to prevent people from harming themselves by chewing the wrong types of seeds.
“Since cells make up the human body, killing them will kill you,” Chiodo said. “Cyanide shuts down a cell’s ability to function by destroying the mitochondria.”
Because it produces energy, many refer to mitochondria as “the powerhouse of the cell.” As the main energy source, cells and other organelles are dependent on the mitochondria and the power it provides.
While many seeds offer supportive fibers and vitamins, for the sake of our bodies, we should all steer clear of swallowing stone fruit seeds. On the off chance you accidentally swallow a seed, just remember this old wives tale is simply that — an old wives tale.
“Just drink some water and let your body rest,” Chiodo said assuringly. “You’ll be alright!”
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Source List:
- Ernest Chiodo — 312.351.0717 — epchiodo@gmail.com
- Ezra Lee — 908.721.8452 — elee@growinghomeinc.org
