Photo credits: Shymon

Indian Licorice (Abrus precatorius) is a native of India and the tropical and sub-tropical areas of the Western Ghats. Despite its name, Indian Licorice is not closely related to the licorice (Glycyrrhiza glabra) that lends its flavor to candies, beverages, and other foods. The seeds are bright red and black in color and highly poisonous.

Nevertheless, they are used in traditional medicine after the toxins have been mitigated. The most common use for the plant is in jewelry-making, as the consistent weight and high luster of the beads make them suitable for the purpose.