Lathyrism is caused by excessive consumption of

1. Lathyrism is a neurological disease characterized by paralysis of the lower limbs. 2. It is caused by excessive consumption of legumes of the genus Lathyrus, particularly Lathyrus sativus, commonly known as Kesari dal (grass pea). 3. Kesari dal contains a neurotoxin called ODAP (β-N-Oxalyl-L-α,β-diaminopropionic acid) which is responsible for the disease when consumed in large quantities over prolonged periods, especially in conditions of malnutrition. 4. Excessive consumption of mustard oil (especially adulterated), polished rice (can lead to beriberi), or mushrooms (some are toxic, but don't cause lathyrism) are associated with other health issues, not lathyrism.