Cassava is also called manioc, manioke, tavioca, mendoka, and tapioca. The root is starchy and contains energy but is not as nutritious as taro, sweet potato, banana, or breadfruit.
The root contains a chemical called hydrocyanic acid which is poisonous. Cassava should never be eaten raw. It should be peeled, washed thoroughly, and cooked for a long time. Any cassava that tastes bitter should not be eaten.
The leaves can also be eaten, but they also contain hydrocyanic acid so its better to use young leaves and cook them thoroughly.
Tapioca pearls are used in drinks.
Besides eating it you can use it to make glue. It can be used to starch laundry.
