Atropa belladonna

"Belladonna" "Deadly Nightshade" "Dwale" "Death's Herb"

Family: Solanaceae

Active Constituents: Atropine, hyoscyamine; scopolamine and other anti-cholinergic alkaloids, as well as starches, gums and lignins.

Habitat: A weed plant that does well in many settings

Origin: Native to Europe

Parts Used: All parts are active and poisonous.

Uses: Belladonna-derived atropine has a long history of use as a mydriatic (dilator of the pupil); other important medical uses have included smooth muscle relaxant, anti-spasmodic, heat stimulant and anti-Parkinson's drug. In Homeopathy, Belladonna is of paramount importance in the treatment of acute febrile illnesses, infections, congestive headaches and migraines. Characteristic symptoms include: hallucinations or vivid dreams during a fever, throbbing, pounding or pulsating sensations, dilated or glassy pupils, heat and redness in affected parts.

""Beautiful Lady" is one of my names. I have been used for centuries to widen the pupils. All my parts are poisonous; so I am best employed in homeopathic potency - where I am a top remedy for migraine, strep throat, and high fevers in children."

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