Head of National Poison Information Centre Dr. Waruna Gunathilaka stated that in certain schools located in rural areas Olinda seeds are used to learn counting ,however since the seed carry poisonous substance biting them may be lethal for students.

Complaints are often received with regard to biting and consuming Olinda seeds and there had been several deaths caused by it during the past 2 years, he added.

However, it is advisable that Olinda seeds should not be used in class rooms as it is lethal for children and those who wish to obtain further information with regard to this can do so via 2686143.