Indications
Henbane (Hyoscyamus niger), known in Unani medicine as Bazrul Banj or Khurasani Ajwain, is a poisonous plant whose seeds and leaves are used in very small, processed amounts as one ingredient of some Unani compound preparations. Traditionally these have been used to relieve cramping pain in the stomach and bowel, to ease painful piles, to calm cough and spasm, and as a mild sedative. Scientific evidence for these uses is limited, and safer modern medicines exist for most of them.
How It Works
Henbane contains tropane alkaloids, mainly Hyoscyamine and Hyoscine (scopolamine). These block a nerve messenger called acetylcholine, which relaxes smooth muscle in the gut, bladder and airways and reduces secretions. The same action affects the heart, eyes and brain, so small excess amounts can cause poisoning.
Dosage and Administration
Use only as directed on the label or by a registered practitioner, and only in a properly prepared product from a licensed manufacturer. Never exceed the stated amount, and never prepare or use raw Henbane seeds or leaves at home. Avoid long term use without supervision.
Interactions
- Effects and side effects increase with other anticholinergic medicines, such as some antihistamines, tricyclic antidepressants (for example Amitriptyline), antipsychotics, Hyoscine Butylbromide and medicines for overactive bladder.
- It may weaken the effect of Domperidone and Metoclopramide.
- Alcohol and sedatives add to drowsiness.
- Tell your doctor about all herbal products you use.
Contraindications
- Glaucoma, especially narrow angle glaucoma.
- Enlarged prostate or difficulty passing urine.
- Bowel blockage or severe constipation.
- Fast heart rate or serious heart disease.
- Myasthenia gravis.
- Pregnancy, breastfeeding, children, and elderly people with confusion or memory problems.
Side Effects
Dry mouth, flushed dry skin, blurred vision, sensitivity to light, constipation, difficulty passing urine, fast heartbeat, dizziness and drowsiness may occur.
Get urgent medical help if you notice confusion, agitation, hallucinations, very large pupils, high temperature, very fast or irregular heartbeat, inability to pass urine, fits or severe drowsiness, as these are signs of poisoning.
Pregnancy and Lactation
Do not use during pregnancy or while breastfeeding. The alkaloids can reach the baby through the placenta and breast milk, and may reduce milk supply.
Precautions and Warnings
- Henbane is potent and toxic: follow the stated amount exactly.
- Do not drive or operate machinery if you feel drowsy or your vision is blurred.
- It reduces sweating; avoid overheating in hot weather.
- Keep well out of the reach of children.
Overdose
Overdose is a medical emergency, with hot dry red skin, very large pupils, fast heartbeat, high temperature, confusion, hallucinations, fits and coma. Go to a hospital immediately.
Therapeutic Class
Unani 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.