Datura stramonium (Jimson Weed, Thornapple)
Family: Solanaceae
Part Used: leaves
Active Constituents:
Alkaloids (hyoscamine, atropine, hyoscine)
Medicinal Actions:
Anti-cholinergic, bronchodilator, spasmolytic
Medicinal Uses:
1) Historically, Datura has been used as an inhalant to treat acute asthmatic attacks, pertussis and other convulsive coughs.
2) The specific indications for use of Datura (Stramonium) include “impaired innervation.
3) The face is red and bloated and of a deeper congestive appearance than that for belladonna; locquaciousness; restless; ungrounded fears; convulsive cough; convulsive asthmatic attacks”.
4) It may also be used in the treatment of tremors, both Parkinsonian and other types.
Adverse Effects:
Anti-cholinergic in type, such as dry eyes, blurring of vision, mydriasis, congested face, dry mouth, confusion, tachycardia, weakness, convulsions and death.
Contraindications: Children, pregnancy, lactation
Drug Interactions: Possibly fatal interaction with Beta Blockers
Pharmacy:
Inhalation: 1 tsp powdered leaf in potassium nitrate inhaled in acute attack
Oral (Asthma): Tincture (1:10): 1 – 10 drops per attack
Oral (Tremor): Tincture (1:10): 15 drops a day as starting dose, gradually increasing to 30, 40, 60
Per day in single dose if needed