Sanskrit: Dhattura, Dusthara, Unmatta
English: White Thorn-apple
Hindi: Datura
Malayalam: Vellayummam- വെള്ളയുമ്മം.
White Thornapple is a medium annual shrub erect grows up to 2m tall; and has an unpleasant smell; commonly found in wasteland areas, roadsides, abandoned places, etc., and its stems are slender-branched, and green in color. The leaves are smooth, pale yellow-green, approximately 8 to 20 cm long, smooth, toothed, and irregular in shape, The flowers are white, like a trumpet; Fruits are covered with thorns and contain many seeds inside.
Leaf Arrangement
Shape-Deltoid | Margin-Spiny | Venation-parallel |
Useful plant parts:
Flower, leaf, whole plant
Chemical contents:
Anti-asthmatic agent – atropine
Medicinal uses:
The leaves of this plant are used in the treatment of swelling due to the bite of poisonous insects.
To treat asthma, the leaves are generally smoked either in a cigarette or a pipe.
White Thorn-Apple, scientifically known as Datura metal, has a history of use in Ayurvedic medicine, though it is important to note that it contains toxic alkaloids and should be used with extreme caution. Here are some traditional Ayurvedic uses:
1. Pain Relief: In certain formulations, it’s used for its potential analgesic properties.
2. Respiratory Disorders: Used cautiously for conditions like asthma and bronchitis.
3. Anti-inflammatory: It may be used to address inflammation but with great care due to its toxicity.
4. Rheumatism: Employed for its potential benefits in managing rheumatic conditions.
5. Antispasmodic: Some traditional remedies use it to alleviate muscle spasms.
6. Nervous Disorders: Used in specific formulations for certain nervous system disorders.
7. Sedative Properties: Due to its potential sedative effects, it’s used cautiously in certain contexts.
8. Skin Conditions: In some formulations, it’s used for certain skin disorders, but extreme caution is advised.
9. Digestive Issues: Used in specific cases to address digestive disorders, but with great care.
10. Fever Management: It may be used to reduce fever, but this application requires expert knowledge due to its toxicity.
It’s crucial to reiterate that the White Thorn-Apple is a highly toxic plant and should not be used without the guidance of a qualified healthcare professional well-versed in both Ayurvedic and conventional medicine. It’s not recommended for self-medication. Extreme caution should be exercised, and dosage should be strictly controlled to prevent potential harm.
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