Datura Stramonium, commonly known as Jimson Weed, Stink Weed, or Thorn Apple, is a plant with narcotic and antispasmodic properties. The plant is traditionally used to relieve bronchitis and asthma symptoms, and is known for its ability to relieve pain and provide sedative effects. It is also utilized in treating Parkinsonism and hemorrhoids.

Family Name: SALANACEAE

Botanical Name : DATURA STRAMONIUM

Common Name: DATURA, JIMSON WEED, STINK WEED, MAD APPLE, THORN APPLE STRAMONIUM, APPLE THORN, DHATURA TATULA, DATURA SEEDS

Part Used: SEEDS, FLOWERS, LEAVES

Habitat : Common in north western Himalayas and foot hills on dry slopes up to 1800 m altitude.


Uses: It is Narcotic, Anti spasmodic, Anodyne, Ache reliever. It helps in relieving the spasm of the Bronchitis in Asthma. It is used in treatment of Parkinsonism and Haemorrhoids. Young fruits are sedative and intoxicating. Leaves applied after roasting are useful in relieving pain.

Additional Information:

The plant contains tropane alkaloids like scopolamine and hyoscyamine, which are responsible for its narcotic and antispasmodic effects. Although Datura Stramonium has medicinal applications, it is highly toxic and should be used with caution. Ingestion or overdose can lead to hallucinations, delirium, and even death in extreme cases. It has been historically used as a hallucinogen, and its effects on the nervous system are well-documented. In traditional medicine, it is used in poultices and topical applications for pain relief, but its use is generally discouraged in modern herbalism due to its toxic nature.