Hyoscyamus tibesticus
Image: Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh (cc0)
NameHyoscyamus tibesticus
Scientific NameHyoscyamus tibesticus
Common NamesTibesticus Henbane, Henbane
Plant FamilySolanaceae
Natural HabitatFound in Saudi Arabia, specifically 10 km northwest of Turayf Camp, growing along the margins of claypans at an altitude of 2700 feet.
Parts Usedleaf,flower,whole_plant
Medicinal Actionsanalgesic,nervine,sedative
Traditional UsesTraditionally used as a powerful sedative and analgesic, particularly for pain relief, insomnia, and anxiety. Due to its potent tropane alkaloids, it was also employed to alleviate muscle spasms and as an antispasmodic, though its use requires extreme caution due to high toxicity.
Active ConstituentsHyoscyamine, Scopolamine, Atropine
Preparation Methodsinfusion,tincture,poultice
Contraindications & WarningsHighly toxic and should not be used without expert medical supervision. Contraindicated in pregnancy, glaucoma, prostate enlargement, heart conditions, and should not be combined with other central nervous system depressants or anticholinergic drugs.
Cultivation NotesPrefers dry, well-drained soil and full sun. It is adapted to arid or semi-arid environments, often found in disturbed areas or claypans.
Raritycommon
Description
A leafy, hairy, and glandular-hairy herb growing up to 30 cm tall. It produces yellowish-white flowers approximately 1 cm in diameter, featuring greenish spots in the throat and a lilac style. Ripe fruits are pendent.
