Datura Stramonium Poisoning

Datura stramonium is a poisonous plant. It is very common, and grows wild all over the United States. It is also called jimsonweed. A person might become very sick, or even die, from ingesting this plant. Some of the victims of Datura poisoning consume the plant accidentally, but many intentionally take the poison seeking a high.

Toxins

• Datura stramonium contains powerful poisons known as tropane alkaloids. These toxins are found in the whole plant. They work by interfering with the nervous system.

Symptoms

• The effects of Datura stramonium poisoning include, but are not limited to: dry mouth, eyes and skin; severely blurred vision, fever, confusion, violent behavior and hallucinations.

Treatment

• Vomiting is induced to remove the poisonous material from the stomach. Victims may be given activated charcoal, which absorbs and binds toxins. If the poisoning is severe, a medicine called physostigmine may be given.

Prevalence

• According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Datura stramonium poisoning occurs at irregular intervals in the United States, but cases of intentional ingestion tend to increase after media reports of misuse by people seeking intoxication that do not stress the extreme danger of taking Datura stramonium.

Warnings

• It is not safe to consume any part of this plant. Victims should be taken to the hospital emergency room immediately.