VIETNAM NATIONAL UNIVERSITY – HO CHI MINH CITY
INTERNATIONAL UNIVERSITY
SCHOOL OF BIOTECHNOLOGY
PLANT PHYSIOLOGY
Lecturer: Assos. Prof. TRẦN VĂN MINH
Class: Plant physiology
ASSIGNMENT TOPIC
Pharmacological Activity of Datura
Nguyễn Lưu Đức Lâm – BTBTIU23150
1
1.
Contents
OVERVIEW ................................................................................................................. 4
1.1.
Introduction ........................................................................................................... 4
1.2.
Macroscopic features .............................................................................................. 5
1.2.1.
Root ................................................................................................................ 5
1.2.2.
Stem................................................................................................................ 5
1.2.3.
Leaf ................................................................................................................ 6
1.2.4.
Flower............................................................................................................. 6
1.2.5.
Fruit ............................................................................................................... 7
1.2.6.
Seed ................................................................................................................ 8
1.3.
2.
Species ................................................................................................................... 8
GROWTH AND DEVELOPMENT ............................................................................... 9
2.1.
Seed and germination stage .................................................................................... 9
2.1.1.
Germination process ....................................................................................... 9
2.1.2.
Condition for successful germination ............................................................... 9
2.1.3.
Duration of the seed stage ................................................................................ 9
2.2.
Seedling stage ......................................................................................................... 9
2.2.1.
Characteristic of the seedling stage .................................................................. 9
2.2.2.
Growth conditions and requirements ............................................................... 9
2.2.3.
Duration of the seedling stage ........................................................................ 10
2.3.
Vegetative growth stage ........................................................................................ 10
2.3.1.
Factors influencing growth rate ..................................................................... 10
2.3.2.
Duration of the vegetative growth stage ......................................................... 10
2.4.
Flowering stage .................................................................................................... 10
2.4.1.
Description of flowering in Datura ................................................................. 10
2.4.2.
Timing and condition for flowering ............................................................... 11
2.4.3.
Duration of the flowering stage ...................................................................... 11
2.5.
Seed production and maturation ........................................................................... 11
2.5.1.
Overview of the reproductive cycle ................................................................ 11
2.5.2.
Seed production process ................................................................................ 11
2.5.3.
Duration of the seed production stage ............................................................ 11
3.
BIOCHEMICAL COMPOSITION OF DATURA ........................................................ 11
4.
PHARMACOLOGY ACTIVITY OF DATURA ........................................................... 14
2
4.1.
Anti-Inflammatory and Analgesic Activities .......................................................... 15
4.2.
Antioxidation Activities ........................................................................................ 15
4.3.
Activity against harmful insects ............................................................................ 16
4.4.
Anticancer potential of Datura.............................................................................. 17
4.5.
Cellular protective and wound – healing effects ..................................................... 18
5.
TOXICOLOGY OF DATURA ..................................................................................... 18
6.
CONCLUSION ........................................................................................................... 18
7.
REFERENCES............................................................................................................ 19
3
1. OVERVIEW
1.1. Introduction
Datura is a genus of nine species of vespertine flowering plants in the Solanaceae family. They are
known as “Angel's Trumpets”, a name that is sometimes shared with the closely related genus
Brugmansia
Also known as: Thorn-Apple, Jimson Weed, Angel’s Trumpet, Moonflower
Blooming time - July - September
Fruiting time - throughout the year (January - April)
Form: Perennial herbaceous herb
Habitat: Washes, roadsides and other disturbed areas
Description
A meter or more in height with divaricate often purplish branches, leaves triangular ovate in outline,
unequal at base, flowers large solitary, short pedicelled, purplish outside and white inside. Fruits are
sub globose, capsules are covered all over with numerous fleshy prickles and break irregularly
when mature, seeds are numerous and smooth yellowish brown
Datura flowers
4
Datura fruit
Datura fruit breaks
when mature
1.2. Macroscopic features
1.2.1. Root
Cylindrical with lateral branches, brown colored, rough due to fissures and root
1.2.2. Stem
Dichotomously branched, cylindrical, blackish-dark to purple color, internode very short; fracture,
short; odor, not characteristic; taste, bitter
5
1.2.3. Leaf
Petiolate, pubescent; 6 to 11 cm long, 2 to 8 cm broad; ovate, acute, repand and dentate, but
sometimes entire, base unequal, odor, not characteristic; taste, bitter
1.2.4. Flower
Stalked, stalk finely pubescent, calyx up to 10 cm long, tubular, lobes acuminate: corolla purple or
purple tinged outside, up to 15 cm long, usually double, sometime triple (3 whorls), funnel - shaped,
lobes 5 for each whorl; stamen -5, epipetalous with connivant anthers, anther 10 to 12 mm long;
gynoecium bicarpellary, carpels placed obliquely in relation to mother axis, placentation axile,
placenta swollen, ovule numerous
6
1.2.5. Fruit
Capsule, ovate to obovate with persistent reflexed calyx; about 4 cm long, 3 cm wide, covered with
short, stout, spines; taste, bitter and acrid
7
1.2.6. Seed
Light brown, reniform, compressed, flattened, 0.4 to 0.5 cm long, and 0.4 cm wide, foveate, surface
finely pitted: taste, bitter and acrid
1.3. Species
Only nine Datura species are currently classified by experts
1. Datura ceratocaula Jacq. - Torna Loco
2. Datura discolor Bernh. - Desert Thorn-apple
3. Datura ferox L. - Long Spined Thorn-apple
4. Datura inoxia Mill. - Thorn-apple, Downy Thorn-apple, Indian apple, Moonflower, Sacred
Datura, Toloatzin, Toloache
5. Datura leichhardtii F.Muell. ex Benth. (syn. D. pruinosa) - Leichhardt's Datura
6. Datura metel L. - Devil's trumpet
7. Datura quercifolia Kunth - Oak-leaf Thorn-apple
8. Datura stramonium L. (syn. D. inermis) - Jimsonweed, Thorn apple
8
9. Datura wrightii Regel - Sacred Datura, Sacred Thorn-apple
2. GROWTH AND DEVELOPMENT
Datura's lifecycle includes germination, seedling, vegetative, flowering, and seed production
stages
Optimal growth requires warm temperatures, full sun, and nutrient-rich soil
Pollination by insects is vital for Datura's reproduction and seed pod development
2.1. Seed and germination stage
2.1.1. Germination process
The germination of Datura seeds mark the beginning of an exciting lifecycle. It starts with the
activation of seed metabolism, where the seed absorbs water and swells, leading to the emergence
of the radicle, or root
2.1.2. Condition for successful germination
1. To ensure successful germination, specific conditions must be met. The optimal temperature
range is between 20°C to 30°C (68°F to 86°F), which creates a warm environment for
growth
2. Soil plays a crucial role as well; a well-draining, nutrient-rich medium is essential.
Additionally, maintaining consistent moisture without waterlogging is vital for the seeds to
thrive
2.1.3. Duration of the seed stage
The seed stage typically lasts between 7 to 14 days for germination. However, several factors can
influence this duration, including temperature, moisture levels, and the viability of the seeds
themselves
2.2. Seedling stage
2.2.1. Characteristic of the seedling stage
As Datura seeds germinate, they enter the seedling stage, marked by the emergence of cotyledons
and the first true leaves. This early growth is crucial, as it sets the foundation for the plant's future
development
The seedlings exhibit an upright growth habit, showcasing their initial leaf formation. This stage is
vital for establishing a strong structure that will support the plant as it matures
2.2.2. Growth conditions and requirements
For optimal growth, Datura seedlings require full sun exposure. This light is essential for
photosynthesis, helping the plants thrive
Regular watering is also crucial to maintain soil moisture. However, be cautious to avoid
waterlogging, which can harm the delicate roots
9
Additionally, low-nitrogen fertilizer supports early growth without overwhelming the seedlings
This balanced approach ensures they receive the nutrients needed for healthy development
2.2.3. Duration of the seedling stage
Typically, the seedling stage lasts about 2 to 4 weeks. During this time, the seedlings prepare for
transplanting, growing robustly under the right conditions
Indicators of readiness include the development of 2 to 3 sets of true leaves. Once these leaves
appear, the seedlings are primed for their next phase of growth
Transitioning from the seedling stage to the vegetative growth stage is an exciting time. The
seedlings will soon embark on a journey of rapid growth and increased vigor
2.3. Vegetative growth stage
During the vegetative growth stage, Datura plants exhibit striking characteristics. You'll notice their
leaves becoming larger and more pronounced, contributing to a bushy appearance as the plant
height increases
This phase is marked by rapid growth, where the plant focuses on developing a robust structure.
The lush foliage not only enhances the plant's aesthetic appeal but also plays a crucial role in
photosynthesis, fueling further growth
2.3.1. Factors influencing growth rate
1.
2.
3.
Several environmental factors significantly influence the growth rate of Datura.
Temperature is key; warmer conditions generally promote faster growth, while cooler
temperatures can slow it down
Light intensity also plays a vital role. Datura thrives in full sun, so ensuring adequate
light exposure is essential. Additionally, soil quality impacts growth; well-draining,
nutrient-rich soil supports healthy development
Nutrient availability cannot be overlooked. Balanced fertilization, particularly with
low-nitrogen options, helps sustain robust growth and prevents nutrient deficiencies
2.3.2. Duration of the vegetative growth stage
The vegetative growth stage typically lasts between 4 to 8 weeks, depending on the conditions.
During this time, you'll see signs of maturity, such as increased leaf production and height
As the plant matures, it prepares itself for the next stages of its lifecycle. Observing these changes
can be quite rewarding, as you witness the transformation from a small seedling to a thriving plant
ready to bloom
This stage sets the foundation for the flowering phase, where all that growth will soon culminate in
stunning blooms
2.4. Flowering stage
2.4.1. Description of flowering in Datura
10
Datura plants are renowned for their stunning, large, trumpet-shaped blooms. These flowers can
vary widely in color, showcasing shades of white, purple, and yellow, depending on the species
2.4.2. Timing and condition for flowering
The flowering of Datura is influenced by specific environmental factors. Changes in day length and
temperature serve as triggers, while warm temperatures and adequate moisture create optimal
conditions for blooming
2.4.3. Duration of the flowering stage
Typically, the flowering stage lasts about 4 to 6 weeks. Under ideal conditions, Datura can produce
continuous blooms, adding vibrant beauty to any garden
2.5. Seed production and maturation
2.5.1. Overview of the reproductive cycle
The reproductive cycle of Datura begins with pollination, where pollen from the male parts of the
flower reaches the female stigma. This crucial step leads to fertilization, resulting in the formation
of seeds
Pollinators, especially bees and other insects, play a vital role in this process. Their activity not only
ensures successful pollination but also enhances genetic diversity within the plant population
2.5.2. Seed production process
Once pollination occurs, Datura plants develop seed pods, known as capsules. These capsules
mature post-pollination, housing the seeds that will eventually disperse
Datura seeds are known for their resilience. They can remain viable in the soil for several years,
waiting for the right conditions to germinate
2.5.3. Duration of the seed production stage
The seed production stage typically lasts between 6 to 8 weeks, starting from the flowering phase
until the seeds reach maturity
Several factors can influence this duration, including environmental conditions like temperature and
moisture, as well as the overall health of the plant
3. BIOCHEMICAL COMPOSITION OF DATURA
Datura constitutes significant amounts of carbohydrates, fats, protein, moisture, ash content, and
crude fiber (Table 1)
Major phytochemicals can be found in Datura including alkaloids, phenolic compounds, tannins,
flavonoids, and cardiac glycosides
Datura species are particularly rich in tropane alkaloids. Hyoscine constitutes the major tropane
alkaloid, along with hyoscyamine and atropine, having different concentration levels in different
plant parts (Figure 1)
The atropine content in the leaves in Datura metel was found to be 0.426%, whereas hyoscyamine
levels were found to be 0.426% in seeds and 0.43% in flower
11
The alkaloid contents of scopolamine and atropine in the entire plant in D. metel increase gradually
with the development of various growth stages and becomes most apparent when the plant reaches
the end of its reproductive stage
The maximum amounts of alkaloids in D. stramonium were found after ten weeks of seed
germination, decreasing gradually with the beginning of the generative phase in plants
Generally, the alkaloid concentration varies with the plant part and different growth stages in the
plant. For example, leaves develop maximum alkaloid concentration in the vegetative phase,
decreasing rapidly in the generative phase
The stems and leaves of young plants contain hyoscyamine as a significant component
The concentrations of atropine and scopolamine differ in different plant parts in young and adult
plants (Table 2)
Many amino acids can also be found such as alanine, phenylalanine, glutamate, and tyrosine have
also been isolated from the seeds
Percentage composition of chemical compounds in the seeds of D. metel, D. stramonium, and D.
innoxia.
Chemical Constituents D. metel (%) D. stramonium (%) D. innoxia (%)
Fat/lipid
14.72
16.60
15.52
Carbohydrate
51.22
26.20
-
Protein
20.73
16.20
13.90
Moisture
4.63
8.50
10.00
Ash content
5.14
8.70
8.26
Crude fibre
17.35
23.70
6.55
Table 1.
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Picture 1.
Identified important phytochemicals in Datura, as well as their chemical structures
13
Concentration (µg/mg) of atropine and scopolamine in different plant parts of D. stramonium.
Plant Parts
Alkaloid
Young Plant Adult Plant
Stems
Atropine
0.915 ± 0.015
Scopolamine 0.129 ± 0.014
Seeds
Atropine
0.001 ± 0.001
0.670 ± 0.003 0.387 ± 0.015
Scopolamine 0.012 ± 0.001 0.089 ± 0.010
Flowers
Atropine
0.299 ± 0.021 0.270 ± 0.026
Scopolamine 0.106 ± 0.031 0.066 ± 0.004
Roots
Atropine
0.121 ± 0.015
-
Scopolamine 0.014 ± 0.004
-
Medium leaves Atropine
0.831 ± 0.014 0.150 ± 0.002
Table 2.
4. PHARMACOLOGY ACTIVITY OF DATURA
Investigations into Datura have revealed notable pharmacological attributes, encompassing
analgesic, antioxidant, anticancer, and antimicrobial effects. Notably, D. metel is distinguished by
its potent analgesic activities, qualifying it as an effective painkiller. Moreover, D.
stramonium exhibits antifungal efficacy against Fusarium mangiferae and Fusarium oxysporum,
and its constituent alkaloids represent a promising class of anticholinergic agents. Atropine and
scopolamine function as muscarinic antagonists, providing therapeutic benefits for Parkinson's
disease and addressing hyperstimulation of parasympathetic innervation across multiple organ
systems, specifically ocular, respiratory, urinary, cardiac, and gastrointestinal tissues. These
compounds exert their effects by selectively inhibiting the binding of the neurotransmitter
acetylcholine to its receptor on nerve cells, thereby preventing parasympathetic nerve impulses.
Beyond this, Datura has historically served as an advantageous therapeutic agent for asthma.
Atropine, identified as the primary anti-asthmatic constituent, induces paralysis within the
pulmonary branches, effectively resolving the spasms associated with asthma attacks
The practice of smoking Datura leaves through a pipe to mitigate allergic reactions stems from
standard Ayurvedic medical practices in India. Concurrently, D. stramonium is exploited
recreationally for its anticholinergic outcomes, commonly prepared by decocting its crushed seeds.
Nevertheless, documented evidence indicates that fetal exposure to D. stramonium precipitates a
sustained release of acetylcholine, culminating in the desensitization of nicotinic receptors and
subsequent irreversible fetal damage
14
4.1. Anti-Inflammatory and Analgesic Activities
Datura species contain phytochemicals renowned for their anti-inflammatory and analgesic
properties. These effects are attributed to the compounds' ability to suppress the chemical mediators
responsible for activating nociceptors and inducing pain or inflammation. Studies have shown that
an ethanolic root extract of D. fastuosa effectively reduced carrageenan-induced paw edema in rats
at 200 mg/kg, with efficacy compared to Indomethacin. This suggests interference with
inflammatory phases involving histamine, serotonin, kinin, and prostaglandins. Moreover, aqueous
extracts of Datura seeds and leaves demonstrated significant pain relief in mice using writhing and
hot plate tests at 800 mg/kg and 400 mg/kg, respectively. While the analgesic effect of leaf extract
was reduced by naloxone, the seed extract's effect remained stable. The anti-inflammatory potential
of D. innoxia leaf extracts is also under investigation for pain relief. The primary mechanism for
both anti-inflammatory and analgesic actions is believed to involve the inhibition of COX1 and
COX2 enzymes, leading to reduced prostaglandin synthesis, or potentially through direct narcotic
effects of Datura compounds
4.2. Antioxidation Activities
The antioxidant properties of Datura extracts are due to their phytochemicals, which effectively
scavenge free radicals and protect against cellular damage. This antioxidant capacity suggests
Datura's potential in treating various health issues, including cancers, as antioxidants are known to
counteract the cellular damage underlying cancer, aging, and other diseases
Studies evaluating leaf extracts in different solvents using various in vitro methods (hydroxyl
radical, DPPH, superoxide radical, β-carotene bleaching, and reducing power assays) found that
chloroform extracts exhibited the highest concentration-dependent antioxidant activity. For D.
metel seed extracts, the hydroalcoholic extract showed slightly superior DPPH scavenging activity
(IC50 of 25.78 µg/mL) compared to the methanolic extract (IC50 of 28.34 µg/mL)
A positive correlation between flavonoid and phenolic content and DPPH free radical scavenging
activity has been observed in D. metel extracts. D. stramonium methanolic seed extracts displayed a
maximum DPPH scavenging activity of 59.50% at 60 μg/mL (IC50: 94.87 μg/mL), a maximum
superoxide radical scavenging activity of 53.17% at 60 μg/mL, and a maximum hydroxyl radical
scavenging activity of 57.88% at 30 μg/mL (IC50: 39.59 μg/mL) [41]. Furthermore, D.
stramonium's hydromethanolic root extract also demonstrated a significant correlation with DPPH
free radical scavenging activity (Table 3)
Concentration of hydromethanolic root extract of D. stramonium and its DPPH scavenging activity
(%)
Root Extract Concentration (μg/mL)
DPPH Scavenging Activity (%)
12.5
16.31
15
Root Extract Concentration (μg/mL)
DPPH Scavenging Activity (%)
25
30.65
50
44.31
100
67.79
200
81.23
400
90.32
Table 3.
4.3. Activity against harmful insects
Many Datura extracts possess insecticidal properties, aiding in pest control. D. metel methanolic
seed extracts adversely affect various developmental stages of Helicoverpa armigera, including
larval survival, pupation, and adult emergence. D. stramonium ethanolic leaf extracts demonstrate
larvicidal and repellent actions against mosquitos like Aedes aegypti (LD50 86.25
µg/mL), Anopheles stephensi (LD50 16.07 mg/L), and Culex quinquefasciatus (LD50 6.25 mg/L),
also offering complete repellency. Furthermore, D. stramonium seed extracts, particularly acetone
extracts (LD50 1.19 mL/kg), exhibited significant insecticidal activity against Sitophilus oryzae in
stored wheat, with mortality increasing with concentration (4-16 mL/kg) and exposure time (24-96
hours)
Additionally, various D. stramonium parts show larvicidal and oviposition deterrent effects
against Plutella xylostella. Flower extracts were most toxic to larvae (LC50 82.3 µg/mL), followed
by seeds (LC50 146.8 µg/mL) and roots (LC50 165.3 µg/mL). Flower extracts also provided the
highest oviposition deterrence (63%), with roots (46%) and seeds (44%) also being effective.
Acetone extracts of D. innoxia roots demonstrated notable lethal effects against stored grain
insects Tribolium castaneum, Trogoderma granarium, and Sitophilus granarius, achieving maximum
mortalities of 15.12%, 13.52%, and 14.07% respectively. A summary of Datura's insecticidal
activity against various pests is provided in Table 4
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Activity of different plant parts of Datura species against harmful insects.
Insect
Extract of Plant Part
Species
Helicoverpa armigera
Methanolic seed extracts
D. metel
Aedes aegypti
Ethanolic leaf extracts
D. stramonium
Anopheles stephensi
ethanolic leaf extracts
D. stramonium
Culex quinquefasciatus
ethanolic leaf extracts
D. stramonium
Sitophilus oryzae
Methanolic seed extracts
D. stramonium
Plutella xylostella
extract from the different plant
parts
D. stramonium
Tribolium castaneum
Acetone extracts
D. innoxia
Trogoderma granarium
Acetone extracts
D. innoxia
Sitophilus granarius
Acetone extracts
D. innoxia
Table 4.
4.4. Anticancer potential of Datura
Datura species show significant anticancer potential, primarily through the cytotoxic effects of their
phytochemicals. For instance, ten novel withanolides isolated from D. fastuosa flower extracts, with
four showing cytotoxicity against gastric (BGC-823), leukemia (K562), and lung (A549) cancer
cells. Notably, 12α-hydroxyDaturametelin from D. fastuosa proved cytotoxic to DLD-1 colorectal
adenocarcinoma cells (IC50 2.0 µM) and A549 lung carcinoma cells (IC50 7.0 µM)
Different Datura parts also target various cancers: root and stem extracts are cytotoxic to human
liver cancer (HepG-2) cells (IC50s 613.88 and 341.12 µg/mL, respectively), while leaf and root
extracts act against cervical carcinoma (HeLa) cells (IC50s 267.76 and 348.35 µg/mL). Methanolic
fruit extracts also exhibited cytotoxicity against Vero cells (IC50 3 mg/mL)
Furthermore, D. stramonium seeds are effective against gliomas by inhibiting tumor cell
proliferation and enhancing GFAP expression, which inversely correlates with glioma malignancy,
indicating anticancer activity. Methanolic seed extracts of D. stramonium also showed dosedependent cytotoxicity against MCF-7 breast cancer cells (IC50 113.05 μg/mL). Lastly, D.
innoxia ethanolic extracts induce cell-cycle arrest at sub G1 phase and apoptosis in various cancer
cells, particularly human colon cancer (LoVo) cells
17
4.5. Cellular protective and wound – healing effects
Datura seed extracts demonstrate a protective effect against organophosphate poisoning. When rats
were pre-treated with a 7.5 mg/kg dose of Datura seed extract via intraperitoneal injection prior to
dichlorvos poisoning, their survival duration was significantly prolonged, extending beyond 24
hours. This effect is likely due to the substantial atropine content and other anticholinergic
compounds in the seeds
Beyond this, D. fastuosa ethanol extracts have shown promising wound-healing capabilities. In an
excision wound model using Wistar albino rats, increasing concentrations of the extract correlated
with improved wound closure, faster epithelization, and enhanced levels of key healing markers like
hydroxyproline, DNA, and protein [8,64]. A 10% w/w ointment formulated with D.
fastuosa extracts proved to be more effective for wound healing than a standard 0.2% w/w
Nitrofurazone ointment
5. TOXICOLOGY OF DATURA
Despite its noted health benefits, the presence of toxic anticholinergic tropane alkaloids in Datura
species poses significant risks to the nervous system. Symptoms of Datura poisoning are severe,
including fever, dry skin and mouth, headaches, hallucinations, convulsions, rapid and weak pulse,
acute confusion, delirium, tachycardia, coma, and even death. While D. fastuosa showed no signs of
toxicity or mortality up to a 2000 mg/kg body-weight dosage, histological studies revealed reduced
organ weight and necrotic changes in the liver, along with elevated serum alkaline phosphatase,
serum glutamic-oxaloacetic transaminase, and glutamyl pyruvic transaminase
Due to its inherent toxicity, D. stramonium is contraindicated for individuals with conditions such
as glaucoma, pyloric stenosis, paralytic ileus, tachyarrhythmias, enlarged prostate, and acute
pulmonary edema. Seed extracts exceeding 0.5% concentration induce adverse physiological
changes. In fact, all parts of Datura exert potent anticholinergic effects by suppressing central and
peripheral cholinergic neurotransmission, which can ultimately be fatal in humans. Datura
intoxication leads to severe central nervous system dysfunction, manifesting as disorientation,
memory loss, impaired information processing, vision problems (mydriasis), myoclonic jerking,
hyperpyrexia, and significant respiratory and cardiovascular issues
Conversely, in rats, aqueous leaf (400 mg/kg) and seed (800 mg/kg) extracts of D. metel did
demonstrate certain neurological effects. These included increased brain motor activity, aggravated
catalepsy, antagonized ptosis, and a reduction in barbiturate-induced sleep duration, in addition to
antidepressant characteristics at lower doses. The study also indicated that these seed extracts were
relatively safer for inducing sleep, possessing better anesthetic indices
6. CONCLUSION
Plants and herbs, including Datura stramonium, have a long-standing reputation as effective
medicines in both modern and traditional healthcare systems. This wild-growing flowering plant is
particularly rich in tropane alkaloids, such as atropine and scopolamine, which are known for their
anticholinergic properties. These compounds have been extensively studied for their
pharmacological benefits, which include decongesting the respiratory system, stimulating the
18
central nervous system, treating skin infections, addressing dental issues like toothache, and
alleviating pain
While all parts of the Datura plant are toxic, its ripe seeds contain the highest concentration of these
alkaloids. Consequently, they can be effectively employed to counteract the symptoms of
organophosphate poisoning and certain central anticholinergic effects. Traditionally, leaf extract is
taken orally for sinus infections, and bark extract is applied externally to treat burns, ulcers,
swellings, and various other skin infections
Throughout history, Datura's medicinal properties have led to its use in treating a wide array of
conditions, such as arthritis, aches, abscesses, headaches, rattlesnake bites, swellings, sprains, and
tumors. Ayurvedic medicine, in particular, has utilized Datura for wound healing, inflammation,
bruises, sciatica, ulcers, rheumatism, asthma, bronchitis, and general body aches. It's also prepared
as an ointment for localized pain relief from rheumatism and sciatica. Additionally, the juice
extracted from its leaves, mixed with milk, is highly effective for expelling intestinal cestode worms
Dried parts of the plant, including flowers, leaves, and roots, have commonly been used as antiasthmatic, antispasmodic, antitussive, bronchodilator, hallucinogenic, and narcotic agents. The plant
is further valued for its anti-inflammatory (antiphlogistic), antiseptic, pain-relieving (anodyne), and
sedative qualities. Various components of D. stramonium have a long history as traditional remedies
for diverse health ailments
However, alongside its numerous applications for human ailments, D. stramonium is equally
recognized for its significant toxicity, which often overshadows its medicinal benefits. High doses
can lead to severe central nervous system damage, resulting in an uncontrolled mental state. Other
adverse effects of intoxication include hallucinations, convulsions, dry skin, irregular heart and
pulse rates, memory loss, blurred vision, and coma, which can be fatal. Therefore, when considering
the pharmacological use of Datura, it is imperative to possess a comprehensive understanding of its
potential toxicological outcomes to mitigate severe side effects
7. REFERENCES
 Sharma, M., Dhaliwal, I., Rana, K., Delta, A. K., & Kaushik, P. (2021). Phytochemistry,
Pharmacology, and Toxicology of Datura Species—A Review. Antioxidants, 10(8), 1291.
https://doi.org/10.3390/antiox10081291
 Gregarious Inc. (2024). 4 Facts About Datura Lifecycle. Greg App 🪴.
https://greg.app/datura-lifecycle/
 https://www.facebook.com/wisewordscreations. (2023). The Datura Genus: A Beautiful but
Deadly Plant You Should Avoid. Plants Life. https://plantslife.me/the-datura-genus-abeautiful-but-deadly-plant-you-should-avoid/
 Datura wrightii – “Sacred Datura” - Wildflowers of Joshua Tree Country. (2023, February
11). Wildflowers of Joshua Tree Country - a Field Guide Featuring Animal Associations,
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Native American Ethnobotany & Translations of Scientific Names.
https://wildflowersofjoshuatreecountry.com/plant-entry/datura-wrightii-sacred-datura/
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