In South America Feve Tonka is well known locally because it generates an important income for rural families, particularly as a buffer in times of hardship. The yield of feve beans per tree is about 1-3 kg per year, but cumaru (Brazilian teak) trees produce a large volume of seeds every four years which results in a gender dynamic.

During years of low seed productivity, household income is controlled by the women. They invest in the family by buying food and basic resources such as clothing and school supplies. In years of heavy production, men control the income. During those seasons, they invest in the family by buying vehicles and tools, such as motorcycles and chainsaws.

The tonka seed contains coumarin, a chemical isolate from this plant, which also gave the name to it. The seeds contain about 1 to 3% of coumarin, rarely it can achieve 10%. Coumarin is responsible for the pleasant odor of the seeds and is used in the perfume industry. Coumarin is bitter to the taste, however, and, in large infused doses, it may cause hemorrhage and liver damage, as well as it can paralyze the heart.

source: internet