The devil’s trumpet plant was unknown in Europe during ancient times and the Middle Ages until it was brought to Spain from Mexico in the late 16th century. Because of its significant effect on the nervous system, it quickly spread through Europe.
Devil’s Trumpet Plant Scientific Facts
- Other names: Devil’s apple, Jimson weed, Jamestown weed, mad-apple, nightshade, Peru-apple, stinkweed, stinkwort, stramonium, thorn-apple.
- French: Stramoine, pomme epineuse.
- Spanish: Estramonio, floripondio, chamico.
- Environment: Although originally from Central and South America, it is now found worldwide. It grows on the borders of fields and roadsides, near villages and populated areas.
- Description: This is a robust annual plant of the Solanaceae family, growing from 30 to 90 cm high. It has big, white, trumpet-shaped flowers. Its fruits are spinous, and the whole plant has an unpleasant smell.
- Parts of the plant used medicinally: Leaves.
Healing Properties and Uses
The plant contains active alkaloids that act on the autonomic nervous system (hyoscine, atropine, and scopolamine), citric and malic acids, tannins, and essential oils. Its action is similar to that of henbane and belladonna, and an inhibition of the parasympathetic nervous system characterizes it. The plant has the following properties and uses:
- Antispasmodic. It relaxes the digestive tract muscles, the bronchi, and the urinary and bile ducts.
- It has been used for all kinds of colic pain, including intestinal, digestive, and renal, and as an antiasthmatic substance.
- In external applications, it eases rheumatic pains.
WARNING! It is a stupefacient and toxic plant that produces hallucinations and mental disorders, and many of its popular Latin American names are related to this effect. Some of these names are very expressive, such as “vuelvete loco” (go mad).
How to use Devil’s Trumpet
- Being a toxic plant, it must not be used internally except under medical supervision.
- Powder made from the leaves. The maximum dose is 0.2 g three times a day.
- Poultices of mashed leaves are applied to the affected articulation.
Frequently Asked Question
What are some known health benefits of the Devil’s Trumpet (Datura) plant?
The plant, scientifically known as Datura, has been traditionally used in certain cultures for its medicinal properties. It contains alkaloids like scopolamine, hyoscyamine, and atropine, which possess antispasmodic, analgesic, and sedative properties. However, because of its toxicity, caution must be exercised.
Can it be used to alleviate respiratory issues?
The plant has long been used to remedy respiratory conditions such as asthma and bronchitis. Its alkaloids’ antispasmodic properties can help relax bronchial muscles, potentially easing breathing difficulties. However, due to its toxic nature, dosage and administration should be closely monitored.
Is Devil’s Trumpet effective for managing pain?
The alkaloids present in the plant can act as pain relievers. However, the toxicity of these compounds necessitates careful dosing and supervision by a qualified healthcare provider.
Can Devil’s Trumpet help with skin conditions?
The plant has been used topically for various skin conditions, such as eczema and psoriasis. Its antispasmodic and analgesic properties may offer relief from itching and discomfort.
Are there any psychological advantages linked to the Devil’s Trumpet?
It possesses soothing properties to alleviate anxiety and induce relaxation. However, its hallucinogenic effects and potential for toxicity make it unsuitable for casual or unsupervised use in mental health management.
Can Devil’s Trumpet be used to treat gastrointestinal issues?
Yes! It has been used to address gastrointestinal problems such as cramps and spasms. Its antispasmodic effects may provide relief from symptoms.
Is Devil’s Trumpet beneficial for menstrual cramps?
Some anecdotal evidence suggests that it may help alleviate menstrual cramps due to its antispasmodic properties. However, scientific studies supporting this claim are lacking, and the plant’s toxicity makes it a risky option for self-medication.
Are there any potential hazards linked to utilizing Devil’s Trumpet for health advantages?
The plant contains potent alkaloids that can lead to various adverse effects such as hallucinations, delirium, impaired vision, dry mouth, accelerated heart rate, and potentially fatal poisoning.
Can Devil’s Trumpet interact with medications or other herbs?
It can interact with various medications and herbs due to its pharmacological properties. It may potentiate the effects of central nervous system depressants or anticholinergic drugs, leading to dangerous consequences. Always speak with a healthcare physician before combining Devil’s Trumpet with any other drug or herb.
Is Devil’s Trumpet safe for pregnant or breastfeeding women?
No, Devil’s Trumpet is not safe for pregnant or breastfeeding women due to its high toxicity levels. The alkaloids in the plant can cross the placental barrier and transfer into breast milk, posing severe risks to both the mother and the baby. It should be strictly avoided during these periods.
DISCLAIMER: All content on this website is presented solely for educational and informational objectives. Do not rely on the information provided as a replacement for advice, diagnosis, or treatment from a qualified medical expert. If you are pregnant, nursing, or have any preexisting medical concerns, talk to your doctor before using any herbal or natural medicines.
REFERENCES
- George D. Pamplona-Roger, M.D. “Encyclopedia of Medicinal Plants.” George D. Pamplona-Roger, M.D. Encyclopedia of Medicinal Plants. Ed. Francesc X. Gelabert. Vols. 1 San Fernando de Henares: Editorial Safeliz, 2000. 157. Print.[devil’s trumpet plant]
- PubMed https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/
- Google Scholar https://scholar.google.com/
- World Health Organization (WHO) https://www.who.int/traditional-complementary-integrative-medicine/about/en/
- FDA – Dietary Supplements https://www.fda.gov/food/dietary-supplements
- National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health (NCCIH) https://www.nccih.nih.gov/
- Botanical Safety Handbook https://abc.herbalgram.org/site/PageServer?pagename=BSH