Indications
Datura (Datura metel or Datura stramonium, known in Bangla as Dhutura) is a highly poisonous plant. Very small, processed amounts of its seeds or leaves are used as one ingredient in some Unani and Ayurvedic compound preparations. Traditionally these preparations have been used to relieve spasm, such as in asthma and cough, and to ease pain, including painful piles. Scientific evidence for these uses is limited, and safer modern medicines are available for most of these conditions.
How It Works
Datura contains strong natural chemicals called tropane alkaloids, mainly Hyoscine (scopolamine) and Hyoscyamine (atropine). These block a nerve messenger called acetylcholine. This relaxes smooth muscle in the airways and gut and reduces secretions, but it also affects the heart, eyes and brain, which is why even small excess amounts can be dangerous.
Dosage and Administration
Use only as directed on the label or by a registered practitioner, and only in a properly prepared product. Never take more than the stated amount and never prepare or use raw Datura seeds, leaves or flowers at home. Do not use for long periods without supervision.
Interactions
- Effects and side effects are increased by other medicines with anticholinergic action, such as some antihistamines, tricyclic antidepressants (for example Amitriptyline), antipsychotics, Hyoscine Butylbromide and medicines for overactive bladder.
- It may reduce the effect of medicines that work on the gut, such as Domperidone and Metoclopramide.
- It can add to the drowsiness caused by alcohol and sedatives.
- Tell your doctor about all herbal products you use.
Contraindications
- Glaucoma (raised eye pressure), especially narrow angle glaucoma.
- Enlarged prostate or difficulty passing urine.
- Bowel blockage, severe constipation or paralytic ileus.
- Fast heart rate, serious heart disease or uncontrolled high blood pressure.
- Myasthenia gravis.
- Pregnancy, breastfeeding, children and elderly people with confusion or memory problems.
Side Effects
Dry mouth, thirst, flushed dry skin, blurred vision, sensitivity to light, constipation, difficulty passing urine, fast heartbeat, dizziness and drowsiness can occur even at usual amounts.
Get urgent medical help if you notice confusion, agitation, seeing or hearing things that are not there, very large pupils, high temperature, very fast or irregular heartbeat, inability to pass urine, fits or severe drowsiness. These are signs of Datura poisoning.
Pregnancy and Lactation
Do not use during pregnancy or while breastfeeding. The alkaloids cross the placenta and can pass into breast milk, and they may reduce milk supply.
Precautions and Warnings
- Datura is a potent and toxic plant: only use products made by a licensed manufacturer and follow the stated amount exactly.
- It may cause drowsiness and blurred vision; do not drive or operate machinery if affected.
- Avoid overheating and heavy exercise in hot weather, as it reduces sweating.
- Keep well out of the reach of children, who are especially sensitive to poisoning.
Overdose
Overdose is a medical emergency. Signs include hot, dry, red skin, very large pupils, blurred vision, fast heartbeat, high temperature, confusion, hallucinations, agitation, fits and coma. Go to a hospital immediately; specific treatment is available under medical supervision.
Therapeutic Class
Unani and Ayurvedic herbal ingredient; plant source of anticholinergic (antispasmodic) alkaloids.
Storage
Store below 30°C in a dry place, away from light and well out of the reach of children.
Prepared by the Oshud Alo team from standard drug references. For information only; always follow your doctor's advice.