DrFeb
Health Guide

Jimson weed

Jimson weed (Datura stramonium) is a wild plant containing potent tropane alkaloids like atropine and scopolamine. While historically used in traditional medicine for asthma, it is highly toxic. It acts as a potent deliriant, blocking neurotransmitters in the brain. Ingesting even a small amount can cause severe hallucinations, tachycardia, and potentially death. It is NOT a safe dietary supplement and should never be consumed.
Evidence BasedDietary Supplement
Jimson weed
VERIFIED SOURCE

Bio-Activity Analysis

Risk Profile of Jimson Weed Ingestion

SCIENTIFIC DATA VISUALIZATION

Y-Axis
Toxic Severity (1-10)
Dosage Level →

Health Benefits & Sources

Why It Is Dangerous

  • Delirium & Hallucinations: Blocks acetylcholine, causing vivid, terrifying hallucinations and loss of reality.
  • Cardiovascular Strain: Causes rapid heart rate and high blood pressure, risking heart failure.
  • Anticholinergic Toxicity: Shuts down sweating, digestion, and urination, leading to overheating and organ failure.

Historical Medical Context

Historically, the purified alkaloids (Atropine/Scopolamine) are used in emergency medicine to treat bradycardia (slow heart rate) or as an antidote for nerve agent exposure. The raw plant is too unpredictable for safe use.

Natural Sources (Foraging Warning)

Jimson weed grows in disturbed soil, roadsides, and farms. It is often confused with wild spinach or parsley. Do not forage without expert botanical identification.

Supplementation

DO NOT SUPPLEMENT. There are no nutritional benefits to consuming this plant. It is a toxin, not a supplement.

Top Food Sources

Jimson Weed (Leaves)
Toxic alkaloid content varies wildly
Jimson Weed (Seeds)
Highest concentration of toxins
Wild Spinach (Lookalike)
Edible alternative often confused with Jimson
Purslane
Succulent weed rich in Omega-3s

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, it is a potent deliriant. Unlike psychedelics (mushrooms/LSD), the hallucinations caused by Jimson weed are indistinguishable from reality and often lead to dangerous, confused behavior.
No. While historically used, the risk of accidental overdose is extremely high. Modern asthma medications are much safer and more effective.
The antidote is Physostigmine, but it is a dangerous drug itself and can only be administered in a hospital setting.
Symptoms can last from 24 to 48 hours or longer, depending on the amount consumed and the individual's metabolism.

Safety & Side Effects

Safety Profile: POISONOUS

  • Toxic Parts: All parts of the plant (leaves, seeds, roots) are toxic.
  • Side Effects: Severe confusion, inability to urinate, blurred vision, dry skin, fever, and seizures.
  • Interactions: Extremely dangerous interaction with antidepressants (SSRIs), antihistamines, and alcohol.
  • Action: If ingested, seek immediate medical attention. Do not induce vomiting unless directed by a professional.

Scientific References

  • [1]National Capital Poison Center (Poison.org): 'Datura Stramonium Toxicity'
  • [2]World Health Organization (WHO) Monographs on Selected Medicinal Plants
  • [3]PubMed: 'Datura poisoning: a review of diagnosis and treatment'