Jimsonweed
NameJimsonweed
Scientific NameDatura stramonium
Common NamesJimsonweed, Devil's Snare, Thorn Apple, Stinkweed, Datura
Plant FamilySolanaceae
Natural HabitatCommonly found in disturbed soils, waste places, roadsides, and cultivated fields across temperate and tropical regions worldwide. It thrives in full sun and well-drained soil.
Parts Usedleaf,flower,seed,whole_plant
Medicinal Actionsanalgesic,sedative
Traditional UsesHistorically, Jimsonweed has been used externally as a poultice for pain relief, muscle spasms, and inflammatory conditions. Internally, with extreme caution and often fatally, it was used for asthma, coughs, and as a sedative. It also holds a history of use in spiritual and shamanic rituals for its potent hallucinogenic properties.
Active Constituentsatropine, scopolamine, hyoscyamine
Preparation Methodspoultice,infusion,powder
Contraindications & WarningsEXTREMELY TOXIC. All parts of Jimsonweed are poisonous and can be fatal if ingested. Symptoms of poisoning include delirium, hallucinations, tachycardia, hyperthermia, dry mouth, dilated pupils, coma, and death. It is not safe for internal use under any circumstances. Avoid contact with skin and eyes. Not for pregnant or nursing women, children, or individuals with heart conditions, glaucoma, or prostate enlargement. Interacts dangerously with numerous medications.
Cultivation NotesJimsonweed grows easily from seed in full sun and well-drained soil, often becoming a common weed. Due to its extreme toxicity, it should be handled with gloves, and care should be taken to prevent ingestion by humans or animals.
Raritycommon
Description
Jimsonweed is a robust annual herbaceous plant characterized by large, coarsely toothed leaves and trumpet-shaped flowers, typically white or purple. It produces a distinctive spiny, egg-shaped capsule fruit that splits open to release numerous seeds.
