Common Thorn-Apple

Datura stramonium L.

Family: Solanaceae (nightshade family) 

Synonyms

Jimsonweed, Moonflower, devil’s cucumber

Description

An annual herb growing up to 120 centimetres tall, with deeply lobed, serrated leaves, found growing on roadsides and on rubble. During the flowering season from June to September, the datura produces funnel-shaped, white to pink flowers. From July onwards, the spiny, four-chambered fruits become visible. They consist of fused carpels which split open when ripe, releasing sweet-tasting, black seeds (capsule fruit). The entire plant, but particularly the leaves, root and seeds, contain tropane alkaloids (hyoscyamine, scopolamine).

Symptoms of poisoning

• Following contact with the mouth and ingestion, rapid onset of skin redness, dry mucous membranes, restlessness, confusion, elevated body temperature, vomiting, hallucinations, thirst, and rapid breathing.

First Aid

• If possible, remove any plant matter from the mouth.
• If swallowed, give the person a cup of water or tea to drink.
• If you suspect oral ingestion, contact a Poison Centre immediately.
• If the child has ingested a large amount or is showing symptoms and a Poison Centre cannot be reached immediately, call an ambulance.