Belladonna (Atropa Belladonna)



Family

  • Solanaceae

Constituents

  • Alkaloids (scopolamine, hyoscyamine, atropine)
  • Flavonoids
  • Coumarin
  • Tannins

Parts used

  • Dried leaf (sometimes with the flowers and fruits)

Properties

  • Parasimpatholytic
  • Spasmolytic
  • Secretion inhibitor
  • Analgesic

Indications

Side effects

Various possible side effects (e.g. hallucination, nausea, headache, fever, etc.)

Contraindications

Numerous contraindications (myasthenia, megacolon,...). 

Interactions

-

Forms of use

Standardized preparations of belladonna:

  • Belladonna tincture (e.g. in the form of drops)
  • Belladonna powder (Belladonae pulvis normatum)
  • Belladonna extract (Belladonae extractum siccum normatum)
  • Homeopathic and spagyric remedies based on belladonna

Caution, never make belladonna infusions or teas, as these can be very toxic (poisonous) and even deadly!