At one time Jimson weed leaves were burned and the smoke inhaled to alleviate bronchospasm. Madagascar periwinkle - Catharanthus roseus Vinblastine sulfate is an alkaloid extracted from Catharanthus, which has been very successful in the treatment of childhood Leukemia and Hodgkin disease. Leurocristine, another isolated alkaloid, is used in almost all combination chemotherapy regimens for cancer. Mayapple - Podophyllum peltatum Podophyllum resin is used as a topical treatment for benign tumors. Aconitine is isolated from the monkshood rhizomes and is used as a local analgesic.
Monkshood is highly toxic if used internally.
Nightshade - Solanum dulcamara Nightshade contains the toxic alkaloid solanine and the amorphous glucoside dulcamarine. Many of the popular laxatives contain plantago seeds known in commerce as psyllium. The mucilaginous seeds provide both lubrication as well as bulk. Some studies have shown that plantago seed may lower cholesterol levels. Pot marigold - Calendula Extracts of Calendula are incorporated into soaps, ointments, and creams.