Report on Jimsonweed Side Effects and Usage
Jimsonweed
Natural health supplements sometimes have unexpected side effects or interactions with medication that can lead to adverse reactions that are sometimes life threatening. The following is a list of cautions that you should be aware of before using Jimsonweed (Datura stramonium). These are referred to as drug/herb interactions.
Warning 1 – Amantadine: Jimsonweed increases antocholinergic effects.
Warning 2 – Antacids: decrease the action of Jimsonweed.
Warning 3 – MAOIs: Jimsonweed increases the anticholinergic effects of MAOIs. Experts recommend avoiding concurrent use.
Warning 4 – Phenothiazines: Jimsonweed decreases the action of phenothiazines.
Warning 5 – Tricyclic antidepressants: The use of jimsonweed with tricyclic antidepressants increases the anticholinergic effects.
Warning 6 – Toxic: Jimsonweed contains toxic tropane alkaloids, which have caused poisoning and death in humans and other animals. It is generally considered too toxic for medical applications nowadays.
Used as a natural health remedy: Jimsonweed has been used internally for:
- asthma
- cough
- epilepsy
- madness
- melancholy
There is very little data to support the therapeutic use of jimsonweed.
Side Effects of Jimsonweed
The known side effects of Jimsonweed include:
- Agitation
- Blurred vision
- Confusion
- Decreased GI tract motility
- Dilated pupils
- Dry mouth
- Dry mucous membranes
- Dry, flushed skin
- Emotional lability
- Headache
- Hypertension leading to hypotension
- Hyperthermia
- Intensely negative hallucinations
- Loss of consciousness
- Motor incoordination
- Nausea
- Photophobia
- Restlessness
- Tachycardia
- Tachypnea
- Urinary retention
- Vomiting
Jimsonweed is listed as an unsafe herb by FDA and is not recommended for routine therapeutic use.
As with any herb, a serious allergic reaction is possible. Seek immediate medical attention if you notice any symptoms of a serious allergic reaction. These may include a rash, itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, or trouble breathing.
Return to the Herb List.
For questions and answers about the side effects of herbs see the Herb Forum
If you find this page useful share it with others. Use the form below to add a side effect not listed or comments about Jimsonweed. Please note that all addresses are held confidential.