Jimsonweed

Jimsonweed, or Datura stramonium, is a flowering plant in the nightshade family (Solanaceae). It is native to the Americas but has naturalized in many regions of Europe, Asia, and Africa. The plant grows as an annual or short-lived perennial, commonly reaching up to a meter or more in height. It features large, funnel-shaped flowers that are typically white or purple and spiny, rounded seed capsules.

All parts of the plant contain tropane alkaloids, notably atropine, hyoscyamine, and scopolamine. The seeds and immature leaves carry the highest concentrations. Ingestion or contact can cause dry mouth, dilated pupils, blurred vision, flushed skin, tachycardia, urinary retention, hyperthermia, agitation, delirium, disorientation, vivid hallucinations, seizures, and potentially fatal outcomes. The effects are unpredictable and can be dangerous, especially in children or when used for illicit purposes.

Historically, Datura species have been used in traditional medicine and in ritual contexts in very small, carefully controlled doses, but modern medical use is limited by the plant’s narrow therapeutic window and high toxicity. Compounds such as atropine are used pharmaceutically, but these are isolated and dosed precisely rather than derived from crude plant material.

Poisoning typically results from accidental ingestion of seeds or plant matter, although deliberate ingestion has been reported in some cases. Treatment emphasizes removal from exposure when possible and supportive medical care; in some clinical situations, antidotes for anticholinergic toxicity may be administered under supervision. Prevention includes keeping this and related plants away from children and pets.