Hyoscyamus pusillus
NameHyoscyamus pusillus
Scientific NameHyoscyamus pusillus
Common NamesDwarf Henbane, Small Henbane
Plant FamilySolanaceae
Natural HabitatNative to arid and semi-arid regions of Central Asia, the Middle East, and North Africa, it thrives in dry, sandy, or stony soils, often found in steppes, deserts, and disturbed areas.
Parts Usedleaf,seed,whole_plant
Medicinal Actionsanalgesic,sedative
Traditional UsesTraditionally used with extreme caution as a powerful sedative, antispasmodic, and pain reliever, particularly for conditions involving muscle spasms, nervous tension, and severe pain. Its use is historically documented for treating asthma, coughs, and insomnia, but due to its high toxicity, it is rarely used in modern herbalism and is not recommended for self-medication.
Active ConstituentsHyoscyamine, Scopolamine, Atropine
Preparation Methodsinfusion,tincture,poultice
Contraindications & WarningsSevere toxicity, glaucoma, prostatic hypertrophy, cardiac conditions, pregnancy, breastfeeding, children, and concurrent use with other anticholinergic drugs. All parts of the plant are highly poisonous and can be fatal if ingested.
Cultivation NotesThis plant prefers full sun and well-drained, dry to sandy soils. It is generally hardy in its native arid environments but is not recommended for cultivation for medicinal purposes due to its extreme toxicity and danger.
Rarityuncommon
Description
Hyoscyamus pusillus is a low-growing annual or biennial herb characterized by its hairy, often glandular foliage. It produces distinctive pale yellow, funnel-shaped flowers with a dark purple or black throat, typically blooming in spring and early summer.
