View clinical references for this vitamin or supplement References: Berney, C. and Wolfensberger, T. J. [Mydriasis induced by splinter from belladonna bush]. Klin Monatsbl.Augenheilkd. 2000;216(5):346-347. View abstract. Bettermann, H., Cysarz, D., Portsteffen, A., and Kummell, H. C. Bimodal dose-dependent effect on autonomic, cardiac control after oral administration of Atropa belladonna. Auton.Neurosci. 7-20-2001;90(1-2):132-137. View abstract. Ceha LJ, Presperin C, Young E, and et al. Anticholinergic toxicity from nightshade berry poisoning responsive to physostigmine. The Journal of Emergency Medicine 1997;15(1):65-69. View abstract. Cummins BM, Obetz SW, Wilson MR, and et al. Belladonna poisoning as a facet of psychodelia.

Jama 1968;204(11):153. Davidov, M. I. [Factors predisposing to acute urine retention in patients with prostatic adenoma]. Urologiia. 2007;(2):25-31. View abstract. Dobrescu DI. Propranolol in the treatment of disturbances of the autonomic nervous system. Curr.Ther.Res Clin Exp 1971;13(1):69-73. View abstract. Eichner ER, Gunsolus JM, and Powers JF. "Belladonna" poisoning confused with botulism. Jama 8-28-1967;201(9):695-696. View abstract. Firth D and Bentley JR. Belladonna poisoning from eating rabbit. Lancet 1921;2:901. Gabel MC. Purposeful ingestion of belladonna for hallucinatory effects. J.Pediatr. 1968;72(6):864-866. View abstract.

Goldsmith SR, Frank I, and Ungerleider JT. Poisoning from ingestion of a stramonium-belladonna mixture: flower power gone sour. J.A.M.A 4-8-1968;204(2):169-170. View abstract. Golwalla A. Multiple extrasystoles: an unusual manifestation of belladonna poisoning. Dis Chest 1965;48:83-84. Goodyear K., Lewith G., and Low JL. Randomized double-blind placebo-controlled trial of homoeopathic 'proving' for Belladonna C30. J.R.Soc.Med. 1998;91(11):579-582. View abstract. Hamilton M and Sclare AB. Belladonna poisoning. Br Med J 1947;611-612. Heindl, S., Binder, C., Desel, H., Matthies, U., Lojewski, I., Bandelow, B., Kahl, G. F., and Chemnitius, J. M.

[Etiology of initially unexplained confusion of excitability in deadly nightshade poisoning with suicidal intent. Symptoms, differential diagnosis, toxicology and physostigmine therapy of anticholinergic syndrome]. Dtsch Med Wochenschr 11-10-2000;125(45):1361-1365. View abstract. Jacobs, K. W. Asthmador: a legal hallucinogen. Int J Addict 1974;9(4):503-512. View abstract. Joll ME. Three cases of belladonna poisoning. Lancet 1916;2:647. Kahn A., Rebuffat E, Sottiaux M, and et al. Prevention of airway obstructions during sleep in infants with breath- holding spells by means of oral belladonna: a prospective double-blind crossover evaluation. Sleep 1991;14(5):432-438. View abstract. King, J. C.

Anisotropine methylbromide for relief of gastrointestinal spasm: double- blind crossover comparison study with belladonna alkaloids and phenobarbital. Curr.Ther Res Clin.Exp 1966;8(11):535-541. View abstract. Lance, J. W., Curran, D. A., and Anthony, M. Investigations into the mechanism and treatment of chronic headache. Med.J.Aust. 11-27-1965;2(22):909-914. View abstract. Lichstein, J. and Mayer, J. D. Drug therapy in the unstable bowel (irritable colon). A 15-month double-blind clinical study in 75 cases of response to a prolonged-acting belladonna alkaloid-phenobarbital mixture or placebo. J.Chron.Dis. 1959;9(4):394-404. Minors EH. Five cases of belladonna poisoning. Br Med J 1948;2:518-519. Myers, J.

H., Moro-Sutherland, D., and Shook, J. E. Anticholinergic poisoning in colicky infants treated with hyoscyamine sulfate. Am J Emerg.Med 1997;15(5):532-535. View abstract. Pan, S. Y. and Han, Y. F. Comparison of the inhibitory efficacy of four belladonna drugs on gastrointestinal movement and cognitive function in food-deprived mice. Pharmacology 2004;72(3):177-183. View abstract. Pentel P and Mikell F. Reaction to phenylpropalamine/chlorpheniramine/belladonna compound in a women with unrecognised autonomic dysfunction. Lancet 7-31-1982;2(8292):274. View abstract. Rhodes, J. B., Abrams, J. H., and Manning, R. T. Controlled clinical trial of sedative-anticholinergic drugs in patients with the irritable bowel syndrome. J.Clin.Pharmacol.

1978;18(7):340-345. View abstract. Ritchie, J. A. and Truelove, S. C. Treatment of irritable bowel syndrome with lorazepam, hyoscine butylbromide, and ispaghula husk. Br Med J 2-10-1979;1(6160):376-378. View abstract. Robinson, K., Huntington, K. M., and Wallace, M. G. Treatment of the premenstrual syndrome. Br.J.Obstet.Gynaecol. 1977;84(10):784-788. View abstract. Schneider, F., Lutun, P., Kintz, P., Astruc, D., Flesch, F., and Tempe, J. D. Plasma and urine concentrations of atropine after the ingestion of cooked deadly nightshade berries. J Toxicol Clin Toxicol 1996;34(1):113-117. View abstract. Shader RI and Greenblatt DJ.

Uses and toxicity of belladonna alkaloids and synthetic anticholinergics. Seminars in Psychiatry 1971;3(4):449-476. View abstract. Sims SR. Poisoning due to belladonna plasters. Br Med J 1954;1531. Southgate, H. J., Egerton, M., and Dauncey, E. A. Lessons to be learned: a case study approach. Unseasonal severe poisoning of two adults by deadly nightside (Atropa belladonna). Journal of the Royal Society of Health 2000;120(2):127-130. View abstract. Steele CH. The use of Bellergal in the prophylactic treatment of some types of headaches. Ann Allergy 1954;42-46. Stieg, R. L. Double-blind study of belladonna-ergotamine-phenobarbital for interval treatment of recurrent throbbing headache. Headache 1977;17(3):120-124. View abstract.

Trabattoni G, Visintini D, Terzano GM, and et al. Accidental poisoning with deadly nightshade berries: a case report. Human Toxicol. 1984;3(6):513-516. View abstract. Tsiskarishvili, N. V. and Tsiskarishvili, TsI. [Colorimetric determination of eccrine sudoriferous glands functional condition in case of hyperhidrosis and their correction by belladonna]. Georgian.Med News 2006;(140):47-50. View abstract. Walach, H. Does a highly diluted homoeopathic drug act as a placebo in healthy volunteers? Experimental study of Belladonna 30C in double-blind crossover design--a pilot study. J.Psychosom.Res. 1993;37(8):851-860. View abstract. Walach, H., Koster, H., Hennig, T., and Haag, G. The effects of homeopathic belladonna 30CH in healthy volunteers -- a randomized, double-blind experiment. J.Psychosom.Res.

2001;50(3):155-160. View abstract. Williams HC and du Vivier A. Belladonna plaster--not as bella as it seems. Contact Dermatitis 1990;23(2):119-120. View abstract. Alster TS, West TB. Effect of topical vitamin C on postoperative carbon dioxide laser resurfacing erythema. Dermatol Surg 1998;24:331-4. View abstract. Balzarini, A., Felisi, E., Martini, A., and De Conno, F. Efficacy of homeopathic treatment of skin reactions during radiotherapy for breast cancer: a randomised, double-blind clinical trial. Br Homeopath J 2000;89(1):8-12. View abstract. Corazziari, E., Bontempo, I., and Anzini, F. Effects of cisapride on distal esophageal motility in humans. Dig Dis Sci 1989;34(10):1600-1605. View abstract.

Friese KH, Kruse S, Ludtke R, and et al. The homoeopathic treatment of otitis media in children--comparisons with conventional therapy. Int J Clin Pharmacol Ther 1997;35(7):296-301. View abstract. Jaspersen-Schib R, Theus L, Guirguis-Oeschger M, et al. [Serious plant poisonings in Switzerland 1966-1994. Case analysis from the Swiss Toxicology Information Center]. Schweiz Med Wochenschr 1996;126:1085-98. View abstract. Whitmarsh, T. E., Coleston-Shields, D. M., and Steiner, T. J. Double-blind randomized placebo-controlled study of homoeopathic prophylaxis of migraine. Cephalalgia 1997;17(5):600-604. View abstract. Wilkinson JM. What do we know about herbal morning sickness treatments? A literature survey. Midwifery 2000;16:224-8. View abstract.

Bergmans M, Merkus J, Corbey R, and et al. Effect of Bellergal Retard on climacteric complaints: a double-blind, placebo-controlled study. Maturitas 1987;9:227-234. See 22 Reviews for this Treatment - OR - Related to BELLADONNA Learn about User Reviews and read IMPORTANT information about user generated content Conditions of Use and Important Information: This information is meant to supplement, not replace advice from your doctor or healthcare provider and is not meant to cover all possible uses, precautions, interactions or adverse effects. This information may not fit your specific health circumstances. Never delay or disregard seeking professional medical advice from your doctor or other qualified health care provider because of something you have read on WebMD. You should always speak with your doctor or health care professional before you start, stop, or change any prescribed part of your health care plan or treatment and to determine what course of therapy is right for you. This copyrighted material is provided by Natural Medicines Comprehensive Database Consumer Version. Information from this source is evidence-based and objective, and without commercial influence. For professional medical information on natural medicines, see Natural Medicines Comprehensive Database Professional Version.

© Therapeutic Research Faculty 2009. Belladonna: MedlinePlus Supplements Golwalla A. Multiple extrasystoles: an unusual manifestation of belladonna poisoning. Dis Chest 1965;48:83-84. Hamilton M and Sclare AB. Belladonna poisoning. Br Med J 1947;611-612. Cummins BM, Obetz SW, Wilson MR, and et al. Belladonna poisoning as a facet of psychodelia. Jama 1968;204:153. Sims SR. Poisoning due to belladonna plasters. Br Med J 1954;1531. Minors EH. Five cases of belladonna poisoning. Br Med J 1948;2:518-519. Joll ME. Three cases of belladonna poisoning. Lancet 1916;2:647. Firth D and Bentley JR. Belladonna poisoning from eating rabbit. Lancet 1921;2:901.

Bergmans M, Merkus J, Corbey R, and et al. Effect of Bellergal Retard on climacteric complaints: a double-blind, placebo-controlled study. Maturitas 1987;9:227-234. Lichstein, J. and Mayer, J. D. Drug therapy in the unstable bowel (irritable colon). A 15-month double-blind clinical study in 75 cases of response to a prolonged-acting belladonna alkaloid-phenobarbital mixture or placebo. J.Chron.Dis. 1959;9:394-404. Steele CH. The use of Bellergal in the prophylactic treatment of some types of headaches. Ann Allergy 1954;42-46. Myers, J. H., Moro-Sutherland, D., and Shook, J. E. Anticholinergic poisoning in colicky infants treated with hyoscyamine sulfate. Am J Emerg.Med 1997;15:532-535. View abstract . Whitmarsh, T. E., Coleston-Shields, D.

M., and Steiner, T. J. Double-blind randomized placebo-controlled study of homoeopathic prophylaxis of migraine. Cephalalgia 1997;17:600-604. View abstract . Friese KH, Kruse S, Ludtke R, and et al. The homoeopathic treatment of otitis media in children--comparisons with conventional therapy. Int J Clin Pharmacol Ther 1997;35:296-301. View abstract . Ceha LJ, Presperin C, Young E, and et al. Anticholinergic toxicity from nightshade berry poisoning responsive to physostigmine. The Journal of Emergency Medicine 1997;15:65-69. View abstract . Schneider, F., Lutun, P., Kintz, P., Astruc, D., Flesch, F., and Tempe, J. D. Plasma and urine concentrations of atropine after the ingestion of cooked deadly nightshade berries. J Toxicol Clin Toxicol 1996;34:113-117. View abstract . Walach, H.

Does a highly diluted homoeopathic drug act as a placebo in healthy volunteers? Experimental study of Belladonna 30C in double-blind crossover design--a pilot study. J.Psychosom.Res. 1993;37:851-860. View abstract . Trabattoni G, Visintini D, Terzano GM, and et al. Accidental poisoning with deadly nightshade berries: a case report. Human Toxicol. 1984;3:513-516. View abstract . Pentel P and Mikell F. Reaction to phenylpropalamine/chlorpheniramine/belladonna compound in a women with unrecognised autonomic dysfunction. Lancet 7-31-1982;2:274. View abstract . Eichner ER, Gunsolus JM, and Powers JF. "Belladonna" poisoning confused with botulism. Jama 8-28-1967;201:695-696. View abstract . Goldsmith SR, Frank I, and Ungerleider JT.

Poisoning from ingestion of a stramonium-belladonna mixture: flower power gone sour. J.A.M.A 4-8-1968;204:169-170. View abstract . Gabel MC. Purposeful ingestion of belladonna for hallucinatory effects. J.Pediatr. 1968;72:864-866. View abstract . Lance, J. W., Curran, D. A., and Anthony, M. Investigations into the mechanism and treatment of chronic headache. Med.J.Aust. 11-27-1965;2:909-914. View abstract . Dobrescu DI. Propranolol in the treatment of disturbances of the autonomic nervous system. Curr.Ther.Res Clin Exp 1971;13:69-73. View abstract . King, J. C. Anisotropine methylbromide for relief of gastrointestinal spasm: double- blind crossover comparison study with belladonna alkaloids and phenobarbital.

Curr.Ther Res Clin.Exp 1966;8:535-541. View abstract . Jacobs, K. W. Asthmador: a legal hallucinogen. Int J Addict 1974;9:503-512. View abstract . Shader RI and Greenblatt DJ. Uses and toxicity of belladonna alkaloids and synthetic anticholinergics. Seminars in Psychiatry 1971;3:449-476. View abstract . Rhodes, J. B., Abrams, J. H., and Manning, R. T. Controlled clinical trial of sedative-anticholinergic drugs in patients with the irritable bowel syndrome. J.Clin.Pharmacol. 1978;18:340-345. View abstract . Robinson, K., Huntington, K. M., and Wallace, M. G. Treatment of the premenstrual syndrome. Br.J.Obstet.Gynaecol. 1977;84:784-788. View abstract . Stieg, R. L.

Double-blind study of belladonna-ergotamine-phenobarbital for interval treatment of recurrent throbbing headache. Headache 1977;17:120-124. View abstract . Ritchie, J. A. and Truelove, S. C. Treatment of irritable bowel syndrome with lorazepam, hyoscine butylbromide, and ispaghula husk. Br Med J 2-10-1979;1:376-378. View abstract . Williams HC and du Vivier A. Belladonna plaster--not as bella as it seems. Contact Dermatitis 1990;23:119-120. View abstract . Kahn A., Rebuffat E, Sottiaux M, and et al. Prevention of airway obstructions during sleep in infants with breath- holding spells by means of oral belladonna: a prospective double-blind crossover evaluation. Sleep 1991;14:432-438. View abstract . Davidov, M. I. [Factors predisposing to acute urine retention in patients with prostatic adenoma].

Urologiia. 2007;:25-31. View abstract . Tsiskarishvili, N. V. and Tsiskarishvili, TsI. [Colorimetric determination of eccrine sudoriferous glands functional condition in case of hyperhidrosis and their correction by belladonna]. Georgian.Med News 2006;:47-50. View abstract . Pan, S. Y. and Han, Y. F. Comparison of the inhibitory efficacy of four belladonna drugs on gastrointestinal movement and cognitive function in food-deprived mice. Pharmacology 2004;72:177-183. View abstract . Bettermann, H., Cysarz, D., Portsteffen, A., and Kummell, H. C. Bimodal dose-dependent effect on autonomic, cardiac control after oral administration of Atropa belladonna. Auton.Neurosci. 7-20-2001;90(1-2):132-137. View abstract .

Walach, H., Koster, H., Hennig, T., and Haag, G. The effects of homeopathic belladonna 30CH in healthy volunteers -- a randomized, double-blind experiment. J.Psychosom.Res. 2001;50:155-160. View abstract . Heindl, S., Binder, C., Desel, H., Matthies, U., Lojewski, I., Bandelow, B., Kahl, G. F., and Chemnitius, J. M. [Etiology of initially unexplained confusion of excitability in deadly nightshade poisoning with suicidal intent. Symptoms, differential diagnosis, toxicology and physostigmine therapy of anticholinergic syndrome]. Dtsch Med Wochenschr 11-10-2000;125:1361-1365. View abstract . Southgate, H. J., Egerton, M., and Dauncey, E. A. Lessons to be learned: a case study approach. Unseasonal severe poisoning of two adults by deadly nightside (Atropa belladonna).

Journal of the Royal Society of Health 2000;120:127-130. View abstract . Berney, C. and Wolfensberger, T. J. [Mydriasis induced by splinter from belladonna bush]. Klin Monatsbl.Augenheilkd. 2000;216:346-347. View abstract . Balzarini, A., Felisi, E., Martini, A., and De Conno, F. Efficacy of homeopathic treatment of skin reactions during radiotherapy for breast cancer: a randomised, double-blind clinical trial. Br Homeopath J 2000;89:8-12. View abstract . Goodyear K., Lewith G., and Low JL. Randomized double-blind placebo-controlled trial of homoeopathic 'proving' for Belladonna C30. J.R.Soc.Med. 1998;91:579-582. View abstract . Corazziari, E., Bontempo, I., and Anzini, F. Effects of cisapride on distal esophageal motility in humans.

Dig Dis Sci 1989;34:1600-1605. View abstract . Alster TS, West TB. Effect of topical vitamin C on postoperative carbon dioxide laser resurfacing erythema. Dermatol Surg 1998;24:331-4. View abstract . Wilkinson JM. What do we know about herbal morning sickness treatments? A literature survey. Midwifery 2000;16:224-8. View abstract . Jaspersen-Schib R, Theus L, Guirguis-Oeschger M, et al. [Serious plant poisonings in Switzerland 1966-1994. Case analysis from the Swiss Toxicology Information Center]. Schweiz Med Wochenschr 1996;126:1085-98. View abstract . McEvoy GK, ed. AHFS Drug Information. Bethesda, MD: American Society of Health-System Pharmacists, 1998. McGuffin M, Hobbs C, Upton R, Goldberg A, eds. American Herbal Products Association's Botanical Safety Handbook.

Boca Raton, FL: CRC Press, LLC 1997. Leung AY, Foster S. Encyclopedia of Common Natural Ingredients Used in Food, Drugs and Cosmetics. 2nd ed. New York, NY: John Wiley & Sons, 1996. Blumenthal M, ed. The Complete German Commission E Monographs: Therapeutic Guide to Herbal Medicines. Trans. S. Klein. Boston, MA: American Botanical Council, 1998. Last reviewed - 02/23/2015 Browse Herb & Supplements This copyrighted, evidence-based medicine resource is provided by Natural Medicines Comprehensive Database Consumer Version. Natural Medicines Comprehensive Database disclaims any responsibility related to consequences of using any product. This monograph should not replace advice from a healthcare professional and should not be used for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. Copyright © 1995 - 2017 Therapeutic Research Center, publishers of Natural Medicines, Prescriber’s Letter, Pharmacist’s Letter. All rights reserved. For scientific data on natural medicines, professionals may consult Natural Medicines .

Belladonna - Homeopathy Homeopathy Deadly Nightshade / Devil's Cherries Atropa belladonna The homeopathic remedy belladonna is prepared using the entire belladonna plant and this medication is used to cure a number of health conditions, especially unexpected start of infections accompanied by inflammation. Belladonna is an enduring plant that grows perennially. The plant has a plump, white colored, chunky root. The leaves of the belladonna plant have a deep green, but dull hue and they grow up to three to ten inches in length and are generally not the same in their size. The belladonna plant belongs to the Solanaceae family, which is known by different names, such as nightshade, atropa belladonna, deadly nightshade and devil's cherry. Owing to the presence of alkaloid atropine , the belladonna plant is considered to be extremely noxious. In effect, the root of the plant encloses the maximum toxic intensity. It is interesting to note that ladies in Italy used the deadly nightshade in the 16th century as a cosmetic to make their eyes glisten.

Hence, in Italian, the plant belladonna or the term bella donna denotes a ï¿½gorgeous lady'. In effect, developed in 1799 by the founder of homeopathy Samuel Hahnemann to cure scarlet fever , belladonna was among the first medicines developed in homeopathy. Hahnemann actually developed this remedy following his observation that the symptoms of the poisoning caused by deadly nightshade resembled the symptoms of scarlet fever closely. In homeopathy, belladonna is a vital remedy for severe ailments that start suddenly and immediately become violent or grave. This homeopathic remedy is generally prescribed for people who are normally healthy and energetic, but become restive and disturbed when they fall ill. Such people have a tendency to unexpected, hotheaded anger that is often manifested by a strong desire to assail or even bite others. People who require the homeopathy remedy belladonna usually suffer from symptoms like acute fever , excruciating pain , especially in the head owing to quick blood circulation , dilated pupils and a dry, flushed skin. Often such people become hypersensitive to light, noise and even touch when they are ill. In addition, they are also very sensitive to quick changes in the temperature.

Normally, belladonna is prescribed for people enduring severe pain, inflammation or any infection, especially on the upper part of the respiratory tract. In addition, this homeopathic medicine is also given to cure menstrual pain wherein there is excessive and painful menstrual flow. In such cases, the blood is likely to be warm and also vivid red or clotted. In addition, belladonna is given to patients to treat febrile convulsions (convulsions in children and infants that are accompanied by high fever), sunstroke as well as mastitis (breast inflammation) during breastfeeding . In effect, belladonna is believed to be among the most important homeopathic medications. Belladonna is most suitable to treat disorders of the heart , blood vessels, lungs as well as the nervous system. As aforementioned, the belladonna or the deadly nightshade plant is highly toxic. However, when it is given as a homeopathic medication, it does not retain even the slightest trace of toxicity and is very safe for human use. This is primarily because the medicine is prepared by heavily diluting the toxic juice of the plant by adding alcohol to remove the noxiousness. The manner in which this homeopathic remedy works inside our body is very interesting.

It seems that this medication functions most excellently for people having precise personality attributes. It has been established that belladonna has the aptitude to provide relief from high fevers very quickly and is also very effective in treating the symptoms related to flu . Individuals having a flushed face or glistening skin are likely to respond best to belladonna. They are the ones who are benefitted most by using this homeopathic remedy. In effect, the homeopathic remedy belladonna is an instance of the manner in which homeopathic doses use poisonous or toxic substances for a number of preparations, but the remedies are absolutely without any toxic trait following heavy dilution and continued succussion. These two processes help to get rid of all the poisonous elements from these homeopathic medications. Belladonna is among those homeopathic remedies that can be used by children and adults alike with complete trust since it is 100 per cent safe and its use does not result in any side effect. This is contrary to conventional medications which always cause some or other side effects. The action of belladonna on the blood vessels as well as the circulatory system demonstrates how helpful this medication can be for treating high blood pressure and high fevers.

Individuals who require the homeopathic remedy belladonna most are those who usually suffer from symptoms such as hot, flushed skin and reddened congested face. Some patients may also experience their hands and feet becoming cold owing to imperfect blood circulation. The other symptoms endured by people requiring belladonna include excruciating headaches and hard throbbing pulse. Such patients also have an inclination to have distended glands. Often, they also feel lightheaded and are likely to fall down to their left side or backwards. In addition, though they may feel sleepy, they are unable to sleep. In such conditions, turning to belladonna not only cures the actual health problems, but also eases the associated symptoms. It may be noted that despite its numerous therapeutic benefits, the homeopathic remedy belladonna may be fairly dangerous when taken in excessive amounts. Nevertheless, it is still being used in small dosages to cure nervousness as well as inflammation of the different body parts. In addition, belladonna is a useful homeopathic medicine which is held to soothe the mind and also promote sound and undisturbed sleep.

As discussed earlier, belladonna or the deadly nightshade plant has been used since the early part of the 16th century as a cosmetic as well as to promote relaxation. The soothing and relaxation benefits offered by this herbaceous plant were particularly desired as well as preferred by people who suffered from violent paroxysms and nervous tensions. In homeopathy, the consequences of using belladonna made it an extensively popular remedy to promote deep and sound sleep and relaxation and, hence, it was used by people all over the globe. In contemporary times too, in homeopathy, belladonna is primarily used to provide relaxation. However, several homeopathic physicians generally use very diluted and low dosages of this homeopathic remedy to steer clear of poisoning . Here is a small guide regarding the optimum and safe use of belladonna in homeopathy. This homeopathic remedy is prepared using the whole belladonna or deadly nightshade plant. Hence, it is advisable that to prepare the medication, it is important to dry and crush the plant in order to extract all the essential oils and juices enclosed by this herbaceous plant.

After extracting the oils and juices, they are put in alcohol to prepare a dilute solution that is subsequently prepared into a tincture of belladonna. Since this tincture is in a liquid state, it can be taken by placing it under the tongue without any difficulty. However, majority of the individuals taking the homeopathic remedy belladonna prefer to take the medication by putting it in a drink. It may be noted that the latter method has given rise to plenty of controversies, as any excess dosage of the medication may result in poisoning. Therefore, it is advisable only to take small and diluted doses of belladonna by placing the medication under the tongue. Although the homeopathic remedy belladonna does not result in any side effects when taken in highly diluted and very small doses, it can turn out to be poisonous when used in large amounts. The major side effects caused by the use of this homeopathic medicine may include headaches, migraines and at times, extreme seizures or convulsions. It may be noted that taking belladonna in excessive amounts or an overdose of this homeopathic remedy may also result in death.

Hence, it is advisable that before using this homeopathic medicine, people ought to ask for judicious and reliable advice on the herb from any licensed general physician or a person who is specialized in homeopathic medicines. In effect, majority of the medical authorities suggest that the physicians should look for other safer herbs providing the same therapeutic benefits, but without any side effect, as an alternative to belladonna. This is all the more important when they are dealing with infants and small children. For instance, they recommend using melatonin to encourage relaxation as well as reduce nervous tensions, which eventually helps to promote sound and undisturbed sleep. Parts used The homeopathic remedy belladonna is prepared using the entire belladonna or deadly nightshade plant. After collecting all the parts of the plant, they are crushed and flattened to extract the juice of this herbaceous plant. Subsequently, the juice is mixed with alcohol to produce an extremely diluted preparation. It may be noted that though the belladonna or the deadly nightshade plant is toxic by nature, the final medicine belladonna prepared using the entire plant does not contain even the slightest trace of toxicity and is useful for treating numerous health conditions.

Uses While the homeopathic remedy belladonna has numerous therapeutic utilities, it is primarily used to cure health conditions related to abrupt start of infections accompanied by inflammation, for instance, severe fever along with staring eyes. In such conditions, the patients hardly have any thirst or they crave only for sour drinks. Other symptoms of this health condition includes tonsillitis , flu, a tender throat , a dry and irritating cough which deteriorates when the patient is talking as well as earache (particularly on the right side) and this symptom usually worsens when the patient's head gets wet or due to cold. In addition, the patients may also suffer from symptoms like a pallid mouth and lips, excruciating pain, a vividly red tongue, an arid and flushed skin accompanied by cold hands and feet, a red, warm face. In addition, homeopathic physicians prescribe belladonna to cure pulsation headaches wherein even the least movement of the eyes exaggerates the pain, distended, red breasts owing to breastfeeding, labor pain , boils , convulsions, nephritis or inflammation of the kidneys, cystitis (inflammation of the urinary bladder), and sleep disorders or insomnia .

Often this homeopathic medication is also administered to children suffering from teething pains as well as to bring down high fever. In homeopathy, belladonna is also an excellent remedy for migraines, especially those that are accompanied by a violent and excruciating pain. Patients suffering from this type of migraine usually have pain that begins in the back of the head and gradually spreads to the area around the right eye brow and finally settles behind the eye. Turning to belladonna helps to cure the migraine as well as the associated symptoms. Source The belladonna or the deadly nightshade plant is an herbaceous plant belonging to the family Solanaceae. This plant grows perennially and is indigenous to Europe, North Africa as well as Western Asia. Belladonna and its uses By Sorrel Published Beltane 1995 Throughout the accounts of the witchtrials of the 16th and 17th centuries, one of the constant elements recorded was that of "flying ointment". A number of recipes for this have survived showing that one of the ingredients almost inevitably listed (along with aconite or monkshood) was belladonna - deadly nightshade or Atropa belladonna as it is also known.

It is known that "flying ointment" was concocted from a blend of several ingredients, each of which produced a particular physiological effect. Its common name derives from its use in eye drops by women from the Roman period through to the Renaissance. It contains a muscle relaxant and acts on the eye muscles to relax the eye and therefore dilate the pupil - hence mimicking the effect of sexual interest or arousal and leading to its being known as "beautiful lady" - or belladonna. An alternative explanation of the name claims that it derives from Bellona, a goddess of war, and as a bringer of death such would not be inappropriate! The plant is generally uncommon but grows in southern counties of England on limey soils in thickets and woodlands and sometimes naturalises in the vicinity of old buildings and quarries. It is a bushy perennial, growing up to 4' high, bearing dull purple bell-shaped flowers during June and July and purplish-black berries in the autumn; the latter are about the size of a small cherry.

In folklore belladonna was the Devil's own plant and so keen was He on its cultivation that only at Beltane could He be diverted from its care and attention so that it may be gathered - hence one of the old folk names for this plant is the Devil's Cherry. Atropa belladonna contains a number of alkaloids. The main one is a powerful and extremely dangerous psychedelic called hyoscamine. Added to this is scopolamine, which has been used in the interrogation of prisoners as it has the effect of causing profound confusion and disorientation, and atropine, which gives the plant its Latin name and is essentially a nerve poison. Atropine takes its name from Atropos - she of the Three Fates whose job it was to cut the thread of life. Again, not inappropriate! A belladonna trip apparently starts out with pleasant hypnotic and "visionary" effects. Later effects during the trip, however, include blurred vision with unpleasant light-sensitivity, dry mouth and incoherent babbling. The general effect of this combination is one of extreme confusion, panic and anxiety. Permanent damage to the eyes may result, as may permanent brain damage.

The effects of an overdose include vomiting and convulsions leading to collapse, heart failure and death. Other effects of the plant are to dry up mucous membranes and inhibit secretions (not an aphrodisiac, presumably!) and as a muscle relaxant. By far the most poisonous part is the root with the leaves being less toxic and the berries less again. Mrs Grieve reports that an adult may eat a couple of berries without significant ill-effect, though one berry is enough to kill a child. When used in native areas the dosages range from 30 - 120mg for the root and from 30 - 200mg for the crushed and dried leaves thought it must be stressed that the upper ranges are not to be regarded as safe! Either way it may be eaten or smoked. Neither way is it recommended. Belladonna is still used in modern medicine - it is found in some common sleeping pills for example, in Contact 400, where it acts todry up runny noses, in some asthma drugs and in surgery as a muscle relaxant before the anaesthetic is given.

It is possible to overdose on a number of prescription asthma drugs and thus obtain a rather unpleasant belladonna trip courtesy of the NHS! Magickally it is assigned to Saturn, though I can't help feeling personally that it more properly belongs to Pluto and Scorpio. Certainly it has great affinities with the underworld. Clearly it should never be taken (unless you have had enough of this life and want to try again) but it could usefully be employed as a visionary or ritual herb in incenses for rites connected with death, the underworld and the Old Ones of those realms - especially at Samhain. References A Modern Herbal - Mrs Grieve The Psychedelics (Volume 1) - Gareth Rose (Sirius Publishing 1993) The God of the Witches - Dr Margaret Murray (OUP) The Master Book of Herbalism - Paul Beyerl (Phoenix Publishing Co, USA 1984) Atropa belladonna Photo courtesy of Flickr user peganum All week on Wild Things, we’ll be presenting our favorite dangerous, horrifying, and monstrous plants, excerpted from The Big, Bad Book of Botany: The World’s Most Fascinating Flora by Michael Largo. Out now from William Morrow.

Atropa belladonna is a Eurasian perennial with reddish, bell-shaped flowers that bear glossy-coated, black berries. Other names for the plant include belladonna, deadly nightshade, devil’s berries, naughty man’s cherries, death cherries, beautiful death, and devil’s herb. The plant earns its sinister nicknames, as its foliage and berries are extremely toxic, containing potent dosages of tropane alkaloids. Its most common name, belladonna, derives from Italian, meaning “beautiful woman.” Historically, women have used the herb’s oil to dilate and enlarge the pupils for seductive effect. But it’s best known as the plant of choice for assassins through history. Advertisement A native to Europe, North Africa, and Western Asia, the herb grows wildly in many parts of the United States, mostly in dumps, quarries, near old ruins, under shade trees, or atop wooded hills. Belladonna is a branching plant that often grows to resemble a shrub of about 4 feet in height within a single growing season. Its leaves are long, extending 7 inches, and its bell-shaped flowers are purple with green tinges, about an inch long.

The fruit and berries appear green when growing, but, as the toxins get stronger in the ripening stage, turn a shiny black color. Belladonna blooms in midsummer through early fall, and its roots are thick, fleshy, and white, growing to about 6 inches or more in length. Deadly nightshade is one of the most toxic plants in the Eastern Hemisphere. While the roots are the most deadly part, the poisonous alkaloids run through the entirety of the plant. Scopolamine and hyoscyamine are among these toxins, both of which cause delirium and hallucinations. Deadly nightshade berries pose the greatest danger to children, as they are attractive and are deceptively sweet at first bite. Yet just two berries can kill a child who eats them, and it takes only 10 or 20 to kill an adult. Likewise, consuming even a single leaf can prove fatal to humans. Cattle, horses, rabbits, goats, and sheep can eat deadly nightshade without ill effect, though many pets are vulnerable to its lethal effects.

Symptoms of deadly nightshade poisoning present quickly, so if medical aid is far off, drink a large glass of warm vinegar or a mixture of mustard and water, which may dilute and neutralize its toxicity. Though today we understand the risks involved in using deadly nightshade outweigh any potential benefits, it has a long history in medicine and cosmetics, and as a weapon. Ancient Romans harnessed the effects of the plant to make poison-tipped arrows guaranteed to kill, and still others found it an effective anesthesia for surgery, as numbness and drowsiness are side effects of its toxic mix. If you wish to grow your own crop of the herb, soak the seeds in refrigerated water for two weeks, replacing the water daily. Plant the seeds immediately after two weeks—the young seeds will need sufficient moisture if they’re to germinate successfully, so choose a plot outdoors in May, when there is no fear of frost, and after a strong rain, when the soil is fairly moist. Place the seeds 18 inches apart from one another, and make sure to keep the soil free of weeds or other plants. First-year plants should be thinned out to about 2 1/2 to 3 feet to avoid overcrowding in the next year.

Advertisement Because it’s so difficult to grow, belladonna rarely appears in gardens. Though it’s cultivated for medicinal purposes in England, France, and North America, the herb has no major value as food. Some home gardeners plant it for its large, colorful display of berries, but remember: This beauty blooms with no printed warning signs, and it’s a risky and deadly choice to grow it haphazardly. Top Comment The Nightshade family includes potatoes, tomatoes and eggplant. Is the genus described in the article the very same deadly nightshade? You know, you can graft a tomato stem onto a nightshade. More... -EricNelson745 Belladonna - Encyclopedia of Alternative Medicine - altMD.com Article Belladonna Description Belladonna, more commonly known as deadly night-shade, Atropa belladonna, devil's cherries, devil's herb, divale, dwale, dwayberry, great morel, naughty man's cherries, and poison black cherry, is a perennial herb that has been valued for its medicinal properties for over five centuries.

Belladonna is a member of the Solanaceae (nightshade) family, and can be identified by its bell-shaped, purple flowers and cherry-sized green berries that mature to a dark purple or black color. The tall, branching plant can grow to a height of at least 5 ft (1.5 m), and is native to Europe, North Africa, and Asia and cultivated in North America and the United Kingdom. Belladonna has also been introduced to a number of places, including the United States and Ireland and now grows wild. Belladonna leaves are large (up to 10 in [25.4 cm] in length) and grow in pairs on either side of the plant stem. Near the flowers or blossoms, one of each leaf pair is noticeably smaller in size. Both the leaves and root have a sharp, unpleasant odor and bitter taste. As the name deadly nightshade suggests, the herb is highly toxic if taken even when taken in extremely low concentrations. One of the first widespread uses of the herb was purely a cosmetic one.

Sixteenth century Italian women reportedly applied belladonna solutions to their eyes to dilate the pupils and achieve a dreamy and supposedly more desirable appearance (hence the name belladonna, which is Italian for 'beautiful lady'). Atropine, an alkaloid of belladonna that blocks certain nerve impulses, is still used by some opthamologists today to dilate the pupils for eye exams. General use Belladonna has a long history of medicinal applications in healthcare. Belladonna alkaloids are anticholinergic, which means that it works by blocking the certain nerve impulses involved in the parasympathetic nervous system, which regulates certain involuntary bodily functions or reflexes, including pupil dilation, heart rate, secretion of glands and organs, and the constriction of the bronchioles in the lungs and the alimentary canal (digestive tract). Belladonna relaxes the smooth muscles of the internal organs and inhibits or dries up secretions (e.g., perspiration, mucous, breast milk, and saliva). Belladonna alkaloids, the active ingredients of the plant, include atropine and scopolamine.

These alkaloids are extracted from the leaves and root of the plant and administered either alone or in combination with other herbal remedies or prescription medications. However even tiny doses are toxic and should only be taken by prescription. Belladonna alkaloids are used to treat a variety of symptoms and conditions, including: Gastrointestinal disorders. Because the alkaloids relax the smooth muscles of the gastrointestinal tract and reduces stomach acid secretions, it is useful in treating colitis, diverticulitis, irritable bowel syndrome, colic, diarrhea, and peptic ulcer. Asthma. By relaxing the bronchioles, belladonna alleviates the wheezing symptoms of an asthma attack. Excessive sweating. Belladonna slows gland and organ secretion, which makes it useful in controlling conditions that cause excessive sweating. Nighttime incontinence. Belladonna acts as a diuretic, and can be helpful in treating excessive nighttime urination and incontinence. Headaches and migraines. The pain-relieving properties of atropine, a belladonna alkaloid, are useful in treating headaches. Muscle pains and spasms. Belladonna is frequently prescribed to ease severe menstrual cramps. Motion sickness.

Scopolamine, an alkaloid of belladonna, is helpful in treating motion sickness and vertigo. Parkinson's disease. Belladonna can alleviate the excessive sweating and salivation associated with the disease, as well as controlling tremors and muscle rigidity. Biliary colic. Muscle spasm, or colic, of the gallbladder and liver can be relieved through the muscle relaxing properties of belladonna. Homeopathic use Belladonna is frequently prescribed homeopathic remedy used to treat illnesses that manifest symptoms similar to those that belladonna poisoning triggers (i.e., high fever, nausea, delirium, muscle spasms, flushed skin, dilated pupils). These include the common cold, otitis media (earache), fever, arthritis, menstrual cramps, diverticulitis, muscle pain, sunstroke, toothache and teething, conjunctivitis, headaches, sore throat, and boils and abscesses. As with all homeopathic remedies, the prescription of belladonna depends on the individual's overall symptom picture, mood, and temperament.

When used as a homeopathic remedy, belladonna is administered in a highly diluted form to trigger the body's natural healing response without risk of belladonna poisoning or death. Results of a clinical trial performed at the National Cancer Institute of Milan, Italy, have also indicated that homeopathic remedies of belladonna can be useful in relieving the discomfort, warmth, and swelling of the skin associated with radiotherapy for breast cancer (i.e., radiodermatitis). Preparations Belladonna leaf is harvested between May and July and dried at temperatures no warmer than 140°F (60° C). The roots of Atropa belladonna plants that have reached two to four year old maturity are also harvested for herbal preparations in early fall between mid-October and mid-November. The roots are then cleaned and dried at temperatures no warmer than 122°F (50°C). After drying, the leaves and roots are crushed for use in a number of forms, including decoctions, tinctures, infusions, plasters, pills, suppositories, liquid solutions or suspensions, and powders. They can be used both alone and in combination with other herbs and medications.

It is extremely dangerous to self-prescribe belladonna, and it should always be taken under the direction of a doctor or other qualified healthcare professional. The frequency and quantity of dosage will depend on both the patient and the illness the herb is prescribed for, but the doses are always extremely small. For example the Physicians Desk Reference (PDR) for Herbal Medicines recommends an average single dose of 0.05-0.10 g. Each patient's illness is different and some patients experience toxicity at unusually low doses. For homeopathic remedies, the plant is broken apart and juice is extracted through a pressing process. The extract is then mixed with a water/alcohol solution by a ratio of either 1:10 or 1:100, and this process is repeated up to 30 times to form an extremely diluted dose of the extract. Homeopathic belladonna remedy is generally added to pellets of sugar for easier administration. The dilution and dosage frequency depend on the symptoms being treated, but homeopathic remedies are typically administered only until the patient starts to show signs of improvement so that the body's natural healing response can take over.

Belladonna is available by prescription both alone (in high concentration strength) and in combination with other drugs. Currently available prescription combinations include belladonna with opium (for uterine pain), kaolin and pectin (for diarrhea), pheno-barbital (for menopausal symptoms and migraine prophylactic), other barbiturates (for insomnia and for cramping and muscle spasms in the digestive tract), or belladonna and opium suppositories (for severe intestinal cramping). Belladonna preparations should be stored in air-tight containers away from direct light. Under these conditions, most preparations will remain potent for up to three years. Precautions Ingestion of high concentrations of atropine, a potent alkaloid found in belladonna, can cause severe illness and death. Atropine is fatal in doses as small as 100 mg, which equals 5-50 g of belladonna herb, depending on the potency of the particular plant. For children, a fatal dose is even significantly less. For this reason, belladonna should never be used unless prescribed by a trained practitioner.

Individuals suffering from kidney disease, intestinal blockage, glaucoma, enlarged prostate, urinary blockage, severe ulcerative colitis, or myasthenia gravis are advised not to take belladonna, as are those patients with a known allergy to belladonna. Patients with any chronic health conditions should never take belladonna without a doctor's prescription. Pregnant or breastfeeding women should avoid all but homeopathic belladonna, unless prescribed by a doctor. Because of the sedative qualities of belladonna, individuals taking the herb should use caution when driving or operating machinery. Alcohol and other central nervous system (CNS) depressants should also be avoided, as they may increase drowsiness and dizziness in the patient taking belladonna. If individuals taking homeopathic dilutions of belladonna experience worsening of their symptoms (known as a homeopathic aggravation), they should contact their healthcare professional. A homeopathic aggravation can be an early indication that a remedy is working properly, but it can also be a sign that a different remedy is called for. Side effects Toxic signs of belladonna include dry mouth, drowsiness, dizziness, constipation, and nausea.

Some side effects, including pupil dilation, blurred vision, fever (due to the inability to perspire), inability to urinate, arrhythmia, and excessive dry mouth and eyes, can also be early indications of belladonna overdose. Individuals experiencing these side effects should inform their health care practitioner immediately. Belladonna overdose is also indicated by a burning throat, delirium, restlessness and mania, hallucinations, difficulty breathing, and flushed skin that is hot and dry. Without proper treatment, constriction of the airway can cause suffocation. If any of these symptoms occur, individuals should seek emergency medical attention immediately. Treatment of belladonna overdose is typically gastric lavage, which involves inserting a tube down the patient's throat and washing out the stomach with a solution of activated charcoal or tannic acid to neutralize the atropine. Oxygen may also be required until breathing is stabilized, and barbiturates may be administered to counteract mania and/or excitation. Interactions Certain medications may increase the effects of belladonna.

These include central nervous system (CNS) depressants, monoamine oxidase (MAO) inhibitors, tricyclic antidepressants, quinidine, amantadine, antihistamines, and other anticholinergics. Other medications, including anticoagulants (blood thinners) and corticotropin (ACTH), become less effective when used with belladonna, while some drugs, such as diarrhea medicines containing kaolin and attapulgite, may decrease the therapeutic response to belladonna when they are taken with the herb. If you are taking these or any other medications or herbal remedies, let your healthcare professional know. Alcohol, a CNS depressant, can also enhance the sedative effect of belladonna, and should be avoided during belladonna treatment. Individuals considering treatment with homeopathic dilutions of belladonna should consult their healthcare professional about possible interactions with certain foods, beverages, prescription medications, aromatic compounds, and other environmental elements that could counteract the efficacy of belladonna treatment. Resources BOOKS Jonas, Wayne B., M.D. and Jennifer Jacobs, M.D., M.P.H. Healing With Homeopathy. New York: Warner Books, 1996.

Medical Economics Company. PDR for Herbal Medicines. Montvale, NJ: Medical Economics Company, 1998. PERIODICALS Balzarini, A. et al. "Efficacy of homeopathic treatment of skin reactions during radiotherapy for breast cancer: a randomised, double-blind clinical trial ". British Homeopathic Journal. (January 2000) 89 (1): 8-12. Sahelian, Ray and Victoria Dolby Toews. "Give Colds the Shoulder." Better Nutrition. (October 1999) 61 (10): 40-44. ORGANIZATIONS The American Botanical Council. P.O. Box 144345, Austin, TX 78714-4345. (512)926-4900. . Office of Dietary Supplements. National Institutes of Health. Building 31, Room 1B25, 31 Center Drive, MSC 2086, Bethesda, Maryland 20892-2086. (301) 435-2920.

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Question: What is the alternative name for the flower belladonna?
Answer: DEADLY NIGHTSHADE