Health Guide
Angel's Trumpet
Angel's Trumpet (Brugmansia) is a genus of flowering shrubs and trees native to South America, known for their large, trumpet-shaped, fragrant flowers. Historically used in traditional Andean shamanic rituals, it is highly potent and psychoactive. However, it is **CRITICALLY IMPORTANT** to understand that Angel's Trumpet is **not a dietary supplement**. It contains dangerous levels of tropane alkaloids (scopolamine, atropine, and hyoscyamine). While it may induce vivid dreams or hallucinations, it is **highly toxic** and has a narrow therapeutic window, meaning the difference between a psychoactive dose and a fatal dose is very small. This guide focuses on safety and education regarding its chemical properties.
Evidence BasedDietary Supplement
VERIFIED SOURCE
Bio-Activity Analysis
Toxicity vs. Psychoactive Threshold
SCIENTIFIC DATA VISUALIZATION
Y-Axis
Risk Severity
Dosage Level →
Health Benefits & Sources
Why It Is Used (With Extreme Caution)
- Hallucinogenic/Deliriant Effects: Traditionally used to induce trance states, vivid dreams, or out-of-body experiences.
- Topical Analgesic: Historically applied to the skin to relieve joint pain and inflammation.
- Spiritual Ritual: Used in shamanic ceremonies for divination and spiritual connection.
The Reality of Use
While users seek these effects, the plant is classified as a deliriant, not a traditional hallucinogen. This means it often causes confusion, amnesia, and terrifying hallucinations rather than euphoria. There is no safe recreational dose.
Natural Chemical Sources
Angel's Trumpet does not grow edible fruits or vegetables for human consumption. The "source" is the plant itself (leaves, flowers, seeds, and roots), which must be handled with gloves.
Chemical Composition
The active agents are Tropane Alkaloids:
- Scopolamine (Hyoscine): The primary alkaloid; causes sedation, amnesia, and delirium.
- Atropine: Causes pupil dilation, rapid heart rate, and dry mouth.
- Hyoscyamine: Similar to atropine.
Traditional Preparation
- Tea: Leaves or flowers boiled in water.
- Tincture: Extracted in alcohol.
- Smoking: Dried plant matter.
Note: These preparations are unregulated and dangerous.
Top Food Sources
N/A
Not a food source.
Angel's Trumpet Plant
Leaves/Flowers contain scopolamine.
Safe Alternatives
Try Valerian Root or Chamomile.
Frequently Asked Questions
It varies by country and state. It is often restricted or banned due to its toxicity and potential for abuse. Growing it is legal in some places, but ingestion or sale for human consumption is often illegal.
Angel's Trumpet flowers hang down (pendulous), while Devil's Trumpet (Datura) flowers point up. Both are toxic, but Datura is generally considered even more unpredictable and dangerous.
Yes. For dream vividness, Mugwort is often used (though caution is advised). For sleep, Valerian Root, Chamomile, or Melatonin are safer, evidence-based natural options.
While historically used this way, the alkaloids can still be absorbed through the skin, leading to systemic toxicity. It is strongly advised against due to the risk of overdose.
Safety & Side Effects
⚠️ EXTREME SAFETY WARNING ⚠️
Angel's Trumpet is POISONOUS.
Acute Side Effects:
- Rapid heart rate (tachycardia) followed by cardiac arrest.
- Extreme dilated pupils (mydriasis) and blurred vision.
- Severe dry mouth and skin.
- Urinary retention.
- Confusion, agitation, and memory loss (amnesia).
- Hyperthermia (overheating).
Long-term Risks:
- Psychosis-like symptoms.
- Chronic memory impairment.
Who Should Avoid It:
- EVERYONE. It is banned or heavily restricted in many countries.
- Individuals with heart conditions, glaucoma, or kidney issues.
- Do not combine with alcohol, stimulants, or other depressants.
Emergency: If ingested, seek emergency medical attention immediately. Do not wait for symptoms to appear.
Scientific References
- [1]Muller, I., et al. (2008). 'Brugmansia suaveolens: acute intoxication with delirium and coma.' *Journal of Toxicology*.
- [2]Giroud, C., et al. (2000). 'Phytochemical and pharmacological investigation of Brugmansia arborea.' *Journal of Ethnopharmacology*.
- [3]Nebhrajani, T., et al. (2017). 'Angel's Trumpet: A case report of toxicity and review of literature.' *Journal of Medical Toxicology*.