Hyoscyamus orthocarpus
Image: Furse,P. Flora of Iran 1210 (cc-by)
NameHyoscyamus orthocarpus
Scientific NameHyoscyamus orthocarpus
Common NamesHenbane
Plant FamilySolanaceae
Natural HabitatTypically found in dry, disturbed soils, roadsides, waste places, and sometimes agricultural fields, often in arid or semi-arid regions.
Parts Usedleaf,flower
Medicinal Actionsanalgesic,sedative
Traditional UsesHistorically used as a powerful sedative and analgesic to relieve pain, induce sleep, and calm spasms. Due to its high toxicity and narrow therapeutic window, its internal use has been largely superseded by safer alternatives and is now primarily restricted to controlled pharmaceutical preparations.
Active ConstituentsHyoscyamine, Scopolamine, Atropine
Preparation Methodstincture,poultice
Contraindications & WarningsExtremely toxic. Contraindicated in pregnancy, breastfeeding, glaucoma, heart conditions, prostate enlargement, gastrointestinal obstruction, and in combination with other sedatives or anticholinergic drugs. Use only under strict medical supervision due to its potent tropane alkaloids.
Cultivation NotesPrefers well-drained soil and full sun. Can be grown from seed. Requires careful handling due to its toxic nature.
Rarityuncommon
Description
An erect, bushy herbaceous plant with thick, somewhat toothed, greyish-green leaves. It produces flowers in terminal racemes, which are typically pale, often with violet markings, and develop into characteristic capsule fruits.
