Scientists find ‘mutant’ gene behind foul-smelling species of wild ginger

Small genetic changes in enzyme that prevents bad breath in humans lead to sulphurous scent in some asarum

With a smell of rotting flesh the flowers of certain species of wild ginger are unlikely to be used in a wedding bouquet - although they are irresistible to carrion-loving flies. Now researchers say they have worked out how the sulphurous scent is produced.

Scientists say the odour is down to small changes in an enzyme that prevents bad breath in humans.