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'''''Datura''''' (also known as '''devil's trumpet''', '''moonflower''', '''jimsonweed''', '''devil's weed''', '''hell's bells''', '''thorn-apple''', and many others) is a genus of [[Datura#Natural_plant_sources|nine species]] of poisonous flowering plants belonging to the family Solanaceae. Datura is known as a powerful and dangerous [[psychoactive class::deliriant|deliriant]], used for shamanic and medical purposes, as well as poisons. They contain the potent [[anticholinergic]] substances [[Datura#Scopolamine|scopolamine]], [[Datura#Hyoscyamine|hyoscyamine]], and [[Datura#Atropine|atropine]] primarily in their seeds and flowers.<ref name="Freye">{{cite book | vauthors=((Freye, E.)) | veditors=((Freye, E.)) | date= 2010 | chapter=Pharmacology and Abuse of Cocaine, Amphetamines, Ecstasy and Related Designer Drugs: A comprehensive review on their mode of action, treatment of abuse and intoxication | title=Toxicity of Datura Stramonium | publisher=Springer Netherlands | pages=217–218 | url=https://doi.org/10.1007/978-90-481-2448-0_34 | doi=10.1007/978-90-481-2448-0_34 | isbn=9789048124480}}</ref>
Datura's precise and natural distribution seem to be throughout most of the temperate and tropical regions of the globe, owing to its extensive cultivation and naturalization. The two most well-known species are ''Datura inoxia'' and ''Datura stramonium''. Both have been used in a shamanic context for religious purposes on most continents since before recorded history throughout the ancient Americas, Europe, and India.{{citation needed}}
The potency of Datura is highly variable, as the potency varies depending on the mother plants age, the weather it was grown in and the location it was growing in. This makes Datura a highly dangerous substance to use as it can lead directly to death, it is highly advised the user does not start with a delirium inducing dosage and uses a scale to measure the dose (Although its never safe, despite the measuring tools you use.)
==Chemistry==
The principal psychoactive constituents of all datura plants are the [[tropane alkaloids]] scopolamine, hyoscyamine, and atropine. These constituents are structurally analogous compounds.
These tropane alkaloids contain a substituted tropane ring, a seven-membered ring with an N-methylated nitrogen bridge between R<sub>1</sub> and R<sub>5</sub>. Scopolamine additionally has an oxygen bonded to R<sub>6</sub> and R<sub>7</sub> of this bicyclic structure to form a three membered oxirane ring. They also contain a propionic acid chain, CH<sub>3</sub>CH<sub>2</sub>COOH, which is substituted at R<sub>2</sub> with an aromatic phenyl ring and at R<sub>3</sub> with a hydroxyl group OH-. The propionic acid chain is linked at R<sub>1</sub> through an oxygen atom to R<sub>3</sub> of the substituted tropane ring to form an ether.
These compounds are secondary metabolites synthesized naturally by various plants. The ratio of these compounds in datura plants varies greatly depending on location, growing conditions, etc. The datura genus contains other chemical constituents, but limited research has been done on their properties. Scopolamine, hyoscyamine, and atropine have a stereocenter at R<sub>2</sub> of their propionic chain. Hyoscyamine is the levorotorary enantiomer of atropine.
| colspan="2" style="text-align:center;font-size:9pt" | Differs wildly between plants.
The alkaloids within datura exert their effects by acting as competitive [[antagonist|antagonists]] at [[acetylcholine|muscarinic acetylcholine]] [[receptors]], primarily muscarinic acetylcholine [[receptor|receptors]] M1 and M2. Although the precise mechanism is not understood. This inhibition of [[acetylcholine]] leads to delirium, [[sedation]] and intensely realistic hallucinations, alongside extremely uncomfortable, dysphoric and even dangerous physical side effects.
''Each part of the Datura'' plant contains dangerous levels of the tropane alkaloids, atropine, hyoscyamine, and scopolamine, which are classified as deliriants, or anticholinergics. The risk of fatal overdose is high among uninformed users, and many hospitalizations occur among recreational users who ingest the plant for its psychoactive effects. Deliberate or inadvertent poisoning resulting from smoking jimsonweed and other related species has been reported.
|-
| style="font-size:9pt" | Total Duration|| style="font-size:9pt" | 3 days
==Cultivation==
|-
''Datura stramonium'' prefers rich, calcareous soil. Adding nitrogen fertilizer to the soil increases the concentration of alkaloids present in the plant. ''D. stramonium'' can be grown from seed, which is sown with several feet between plants. It is sensitive to frost, so should be sheltered during cold weather. The plant is harvested when the fruits are ripe, but still green. To harvest, the entire plant is cut down, the leaves are stripped from the plant, and everything is left to dry. When the fruits begin to burst open, the seeds are harvested.
'''Datura''' is a genus of legal flowering plants which is classed as a powerful and dangerous [[deliriant]] drug. Pharmacologically, the principal psychoactive constituents of all Datura plants are [[tropane alkaloids]] such as [[scopolamine]], [[hyoscyamine]], and [[atropine]], primarily in their seeds and flowers. There can be a 5:1 potency variation between plants, and a given plant's toxicity depends on its age, where it is growing, and the local weather conditions. This variation makes Datura exceptionally hazardous as a drug. Because of the presence of these substances, Datura has been used for centuries in some cultures as a poison.[4][6]
|{{effects/physical|
The physical effects of datura can be described as extremely unpleasant and distressing to the extent that they make enjoying the experience impossible especially at common to heavy dosages.
The plants precise and natural distribution seem to be throughout most of the temperate and tropical regions of the globe, owing to its extensive cultivation and naturalization. There are a total of nine different species in the Datura genus, but the two most well-known species are ''Datura inoxia'' and ''Datura strammonium''. Both of which have been used in a shamanic context for religious purposes on most continents since before recorded history throughout the ancient Americas, Europe and India.
*'''[[Effect::Sedation]]''' or '''[[Effect::Stimulation]]'''
*'''[[Effect::Perception of bodily heaviness]]''' - The first noticeable sensation is having an extremely heavy body as if the gravity one is subject to has increased exponentially. This makes it extremely difficult and uncomfortable to move.
*'''[[Effect::Spontaneous bodily sensations]]''' - Users commonly report all-encompassing, sharp and extremely painful jolts of electricity that spontaneously manifest themselves in a similar rhythm to hiccups.
*'''[[Effect::Nausea]]''' or '''[[Effect::Nausea suppression]]''' - Datura can be used to treat nausea at low doses. At high, delirium-inducing doses, it can cause significant amounts of nausea, although it rarely leads to vomiting. In some rare cases bile reflux is possible.
*'''[[Effect::Olfactory hallucination]]'''
*'''[[Effect::Physical fatigue]]'''
*'''[[Effect::Restless leg syndrome]]'''
*'''[[Effect::Seizures]]'''{{citation needed}}
*'''[[Effect::Tactile enhancement]]'''
*'''[[Effect::Tactile hallucination]]'''
*'''[[Effect::Tactile suppression]]'''
*'''[[Effect::Temporary erectile dysfunction]]'''
*'''[[Effect::Difficulty urinating]]''' and '''[[Effect::Frequent urination]]'''- This can be described as a feeling of concrete blocking the urethra, painfully conflicting with a frequent need to urinate.
*'''[[Effect::Photosensitivity]]'''
*'''[[Effect::Pupil dilation]]''' - Datura blocks receptors in the muscles of the eye that constrict pupil size.{{citation needed}} This can result in an extreme sensitivity to light which can last for weeks after the experience in certain cases, it also blocks the accommodation reflex, causing vision to be unfocused.{{citation needed}} Prolonged usage is reputed to cause blindness.<ref>{{cite book | vauthors=((Wood, G. B.)) | date= 1856 | title=A Treatise on Therapeutics, and Pharmacology: Or Materia Medica | publisher=Lippincott}}</ref>
As a general rule, [[PsychonautWiki]] neither recommends nor discourages the use of any psychoactive, however, in the case of [[tropane alkaloid]] containing plants, we think it is important to note that an overwhelming majority of those who describe their use of Datura find their experiences extremely mentally and physically unpleasant and not infrequently physically dangerous.
}}
{{effects/visual|
Datura does not enhance the processing of visual stimuli in the same way that [[psychedelics]] do, Instead, it tends to degrade and decrease visual aptitude while increasing hallucinations and perceptual delusions.
====Suppression====
*'''[[Effect::Visual acuity suppression]]''' - This effect can blur the vision to the point where it can be impossible to read. This blurring of the vision can potentially last for days after the experience. <ref>{{Citation | title=Datura - Erowid Exp - “Out of Body Delusional Poison” | url=https://www.erowid.org/experiences/exp.php?ID=44494}}</ref>
*'''[[Effect::Visual drifting|Drifting]]''' ''([[Visual drifting#Melting|melting]], [[Visual drifting#Breathing|breathing]], [[Visual drifting#Morphing|morphing]] and [[Visual drifting#Flowing|flowing]])'' - In comparison to other [[hallucinogens]], this effect can be described as intricate in complexity; jittery, slow and rigid in motion; static in permanence; realistic in believability and interactive in plasticity
*'''[[Effect::After images]]'''
*'''[[Effect::Visual haze]]'''
*'''[[Effect::Object alteration]]'''
=Pharmacology=
====Hallucinatory states====
Datura is an antimuscarinic agent.
Datura is extremely efficient at inducing delirious hallucinations which can be broken into the categories described below:
*'''[[Effect::External hallucination]]''' (''[[effect::autonomous entities]]''; ''[[effect::settings, sceneries, and landscapes]]''; ''[[effect::perspective hallucinations]]'' and ''[[effect::scenarios and plots]]'') - In comparison to other classes of [[hallucinogen]], this effect occurs more frequently than that of any other at moderate to heavy doses and is the defining feature of the experience. It can be comprehensively described through its [[Internal_hallucinations#Variations|variations]] as delirious in believability, autonomous in controllability and solid in style. The most common themes for these hallucinations include those of everyday occurrences such as smoking phantom cigarettes, talking to people who are not there, insects and sinister, nightmarish experiences.
*'''[[Effect::Internal hallucination]]''' (''[[effect::autonomous entities]]''; ''[[effect::settings, sceneries, and landscapes]]''; ''[[effect::perspective hallucinations]]'' and ''[[effect::scenarios and plots]]'') - In comparison to other classes of [[hallucinogen]], this effect occurs briefly and spontaneously at moderate doses but becomes progressively extended in its occurrence and duration proportional to dosage before eventually becoming all-encompassing. It can be comprehensively described through its [[Internal_hallucinations#Variations|variations]] as delirious in believability, interactive in style, equal in new experiences and memory replays in content, autonomous in controllability and solid in style.
*'''[[Effect::Peripheral information misinterpretation]]
*'''[[Effect::Shadow people]]'''
*'''[[Effect::Unspeakable horrors]]'''
* '''[[Effect::Object activation]]'''
=Subjective effects=
}}
|{{effects/cognitive|
==Physical effects==
The cognitive effects of datura are described by many as generally negative and [[cognitive dysphoria|dysphoric]], often consisting of extreme [[paranoia]] and [[feelings of impending doom]]. Like other deliriants, datura is confusing and disorienting, often leading to a complete inability to communicate or understand normal language.
The physical effects of datura are usually described as extremely uncomfortable. They can be broken down into nine components all of which progressively intensify proportional to dosage. These are described below and generally include:
*'''[[Physical effects: Increased bodily weight|Increased bodily weight]]''' - The first noticeable sensation is that of having an extremely heavy body, as if the gravity has been multiplied by a thousand. This makes it extremely difficult and uncomfortable to move.
*'''[[Physical effects: Spontaneous tactile sensations|Spontaneous tactile sensations]]''' - Users commonly report all-encompassing, sharp and extremely painful jolts of electricity that spontaneously manifest themselves in a similar rhythm to hiccups.
*'''[[Physical effects: Difficulty urinating|Difficulty urinating]]''' - This can be described as a feeling of concrete blocking your urethra and painfully conflicts with a frequent need to urinate.
==Cognitive effects==
*'''[[Effect::Sleepiness]]''' - In terms of its effects on the user's physical energy levels, datura is commonly considered to be extremely tiring.
The head space of datura is described by many as generally negative and dysphoric throughout the trip, generally consisting of extreme paranoia and feelings of impending doom. It is largely confusing and disorienting often leading to a complete inability to communicate or understand normal language. It contains unique cognitive effects found almost exclusively in the [[deliriants|deliriant]] class.
*'''[[Effect::Wakefulness]]''' - Even though datura is a depressant overall and causes sleepiness, it has stimulant effects on the body, which can also keep the user awake. This effect predominates sleepiness at higher dosages.
*'''[[Effect::Motivation suppression]]''' - Datura can cause complete loss of motivation to do anything. This is often accompanied by [[depression]] and can make the user extremely bored.
*'''[[Effect::Increased libido]]''' - Datura stramonium seeds have been known to increase libido and sex drive for a number of its users. Throughout history and still today dried datura seeds have even been boiled or made into ointments with various other ingredients added and occasionally other [[psychoactive substances]] which were often applied to the genitals for treating sexual impotency. This however is not recommended due to the plant's unpredictable levels of toxicity.
*'''[[Effect::Amnesia]]''' - In some cases this has been known to lead to anterograde amnesia which is a persisting negative effect on the user's memory capacity that occurs even after the experience has ended. This effect causes one to have difficulty forming new memories directly after and as a result of an amnesic episode.
*'''[[Effect::Anxiety]]'''
*'''[[Effect::Cognitive dysphoria]]''' - The levels of dysphoria experienced, however, vary between people with a very small percentage of users reporting that they do not seem to experience them at all.
*'''[[Cognitive effects: Thought deceleration|Thought deceleration]]'''
Due to its stimulant and [[deliriant]] effects, datura can cause mild to significant after effects when "coming down". These effects commonly include:
*'''[[Cognitive effects: Suppression of emotion|Suppression of emotion]]'''
*'''[[Effect::Anxiety]]'''
*'''[[Cognitive effects: Suppression of information processing|Suppression of information processing]]'''
*'''[[Effect::Brightness alteration]]''' - This can often manifest itself in the form of [[photophobia]].
*'''[[Cognitive effects: Amnesia|Amnesia]]'''
*'''[[Effect::Cognitive fatigue]]'''
*'''[[Cognitive effects: Suppression of language|Suppression of language]]'''
*'''[[Effect::Dehydration]]'''
*'''[[Cognitive effects: Time distortion|Time distortion]]'''
*'''[[Effect::Delirium]]''' - This possible after effect is not as consistent or as long lasting usually but can be more likely to present itself if taken consecutively or in high dosages. In rare circumstances or when taken too frequently, this can display itself in the form of temporary or even long-term [[psychosis]] and a general disconnection from reality.
*'''[[Cognitive effects: Paranoia|Paranoia]]
*'''[[Effect::Depression]]'''
*'''[[Effect::Language suppression]]'''
*'''[[Effect::Motivation suppression]]'''
*'''[[Effect::Peripheral information misinterpretation]]'''
*'''[[Effect::Pupil dilation]]''' - This often tends towards the individual experiencing [[diffraction]] even long after the initial intoxication has worn off.
*'''[[Effect::Sleepiness]]'''
*'''[[Effect::Thought deceleration]]'''
*'''[[Effect::Visual acuity suppression]]''' - This often consists of a feeling of being temporarily farsighted and often renders one unable to read due to heavily blurred vision.
}}
}}
===Experience reports===
Anecdotal reports which describe the effects of this compound within our [[experience index]] include:
Datura does not enhance visual stimuli in the way that psychedelics do; instead they tend to degrade and decrease visual aptitude both increasing hallucination and degrading vision. These components are detailed below:
Due to its extensive cultivation and naturalization throughout the temperate and tropical regions, datura is found in most areas of the world. There are nine identified species:
{| align="center"
|-
|[[File:69028.jpg|thumbnail|link=https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Datura_ceratocaula|centre|150px|''[https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Datura_ceratocaula D. ceratocaula]'']]||[[File:Whiteflower8.jpg|thumbnail|centre|link=https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Datura_discolor|150px|''[https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Datura_discolor D. discolor]'']]||[[File:DaturaFerox-Fruit.JPG|thumbnail|link=https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Datura_ferox|centre|150px|''[https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Datura_ferox D. ferox]'']]||[[File:Datura_innoxia_flower_02.jpg|thumbnail|link=https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Datura_inoxia|centre|150px|''[https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Datura_inoxia D. inoxia]'']]
|}
{| align="center"
|-
|[[File:DATLEIC2.jpg|thumbnail|link=https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Datura_leichhardtii|centre|150px|''[https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Datura_leichhardtii D. leichhardtii]'' ]]||[[File:Datura metel Blanco1.34-cropped.jpg|thumbnail|centre|link=https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Datura_metel|150px|''[https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Datura_metel D. metel]'']]||[[File:Datura_quercifolia.jpg|thumbnail|link=https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Datura_quercifolia|centre|150px|''[https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Datura_quercifolia D. quercifolia]'']]||[[File:Datura_stramonium_2_(2005_07_07).jpg|thumbnail|centre|link=https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Datura_stramonium|150px|''[https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Datura_stramonium D. stramonium]'']]||[[File:Datura_wrightii_flower2.jpg|thumbnail|link=https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Datura_wrightii|centre|150px|''[https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Datura_wrightii D. wrightii]'']]
|
|}
*'''[[Visual effects: Decreased visual acuity|Decreased visual acuity]]''' - This effect can result in blurry vision to the point of blindness, sometimes lasting for days after the trip itself.
==Toxicity and harm potential==
*'''[[Visual effects: Suppression of pattern recognition|Suppression of pattern recognition]]'''
Datura is known to be extremely unpredictable and has the potential to result in severe consequences, hospitalization or death. The toxicity and long-term health effects of regular datura usage do not seem to have been studied in any scientific context and the exact [[Toxicity::toxic dosage is unknown]]. This is because long-term datura usage is very rare and the vast majority of people who try it do not desire to repeat the experience.
In traditional cultures, a great deal of experience with and detailed knowledge of datura was critical to minimize harm.<ref name="Preissel2005">{{cite book | vauthors=((Preissel, U.)), ((Preissel, H.-G.)) | date= 2005 | title=Brugmansia and Datura: angel’s trumpets and thorn apples | publisher=Firefly ; Chris Lloyd [distributor | isbn=9781552095980}}</ref><ref name="Adams2005">{{cite journal | vauthors=((Adams, J. D.)), ((Garcia, C.)) | journal=Evidence-based Complementary and Alternative Medicine | title=Spirit, Mind and Body in Chumash Healing | volume=2 | issue=4 | pages=459–463 | date= December 2005 | url=https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC1297503/ | issn=1741-427X | doi=10.1093/ecam/neh130}}</ref> Many fatal incidents result from modern users ingesting datura. For example, in the 1990s and 2000s, the United States media contained stories of adolescents and young adults dying or becoming seriously ill from intentionally ingesting datura.<ref>{{Citation | title=Suspected Moonflower Intoxication --- Ohio, 2002 | url=https://www.cdc.gov/mmwr/preview/mmwrhtml/mm5233a2.htm}}</ref><ref>{{Citation | title=Jimson weed users chase high all the way to hospital - USATODAY.com | url=http://usatoday30.usatoday.com/news/nation/2006-11-01-jimson_x.htm}}</ref> There are also several reports in the medical literature of deaths from ''D. stramonium'' and ''D. ferox'' intoxication.<ref>{{cite journal | vauthors=((Michalodimitrakis, M.)), ((Koutselinis, A.)) | journal=Journal of Forensic Sciences | title=Discussion of “Datura stramonium: a fatal poisoning” | volume=29 | issue=4 | pages=961–962 | date= October 1984 | issn=0022-1198}}</ref><ref>{{cite journal | vauthors=((Boumba, V. A.)), ((Mitselou, A.)), ((Vougiouklakis, T.)) | journal=Veterinary and Human Toxicology | title=Fatal poisoning from ingestion of Datura stramonium seeds | volume=46 | issue=2 | pages=81–82 | date= April 2004 | issn=0145-6296}}</ref><ref>{{cite journal | vauthors=((Steenkamp, P. A.)), ((Harding, N. M.)), ((Heerden, F. R. van)), ((Wyk, B.-E. van)) | journal=Forensic Science International | title=Fatal Datura poisoning: identification of atropine and scopolamine by high performance liquid chromatography/photodiode array/mass spectrometry | volume=145 | issue=1 | pages=31–39 | date= October 2004 | url=https://linkinghub.elsevier.com/retrieve/pii/S0379073804001719 | issn=03790738 | doi=10.1016/j.forsciint.2004.03.011}}</ref> Children are especially vulnerable to atropine poisoning and their prognosis is likely to be fatal.<ref>{{cite journal | vauthors=((Taha, S. A.)), ((Mahdi, A. H.)) | journal=Transactions of the Royal Society of Tropical Medicine and Hygiene | title=Datura intoxication in Riyadh | volume=78 | issue=1 | pages=134–135 | date= 1984 | issn=0035-9203 | doi=10.1016/0035-9203(84)90196-2}}</ref><ref>{{cite journal | vauthors=((Djibo, A.)), ((Bouzou, S. B.)) | journal=Bulletin De La Societe De Pathologie Exotique (1990) | title=[Acute intoxication with “sobi-lobi” (Datura). Four cases in Niger] | volume=93 | issue=4 | pages=294–297 | date= November 2000 | issn=0037-9085}}</ref>
As for visual distortions and alterations, effects experienced are detailed below:
*'''[[Visual effects: Drifting|Visual drifting]]''' ''([[Visual effects: Drifting#Melting|Melting]], [[Visual effects: Drifting#Breathing|Breathing]], [[Visual effects: Drifting#Morphing|Morphing]] and [[Visual effects: Drifting#Flowing|Flowing]])'' - In comparison to other [[hallucinogens]], this effect can be described as intricate in complexity, jittery, slow and rigid in motion, static in their permanence, realistic in believability, and interactive in plasticity
In some parts of Europe and India, datura has been a popular poison for suicide and murder. From 1950 to 1965, the State Chemical Laboratories in Agra, India investigated 2,778 deaths caused by ingesting datura.<ref name="Preissel2005" /><ref name="Adams2005" /><ref>{{Citation | vauthors=((Andrews, D.)) | title=Daturas | url=https://www.sleuthsayers.org/2012/02/daturas.html}}</ref>
*'''[[Visual effects: After images|After images]]'''
===[[Visual effects: Hallucinatory states (deliriant)|Hallucinatory states]]===
===Psychosis===
The effects of Datura are extremely efficient at inducing delirious hallucinations which can be broken into the two categories described below:
Datura has been reported to cause psychosis and delirium at a significantly higher rate than other [[hallucinogens]] like [[LSD]], [[ketamine]], or [[DMT]]. There are a large number of experience reports online which describe states of psychotic delirium, amnesia, and other serious consequences after abusing the drug. In many cases, it has resulted in hospitalization and death.
The auditory effects of Datura are common in their occurrence and exhibit a range of effects which commonly includes:
There can be a 5:1 potency variation between plants and a given plant's toxicity depends on its age, where it is growing, and the local weather conditions. This variation makes datura exceptionally hazardous as a drug and there is no way for the common man to accurately measure the dosage of any given plant. Datura has been used for centuries in some cultures as a poison because of the presence of these substances.<ref name="Preissel2005" /><ref name="Adams2005" />
The safest way to prevent overdose is to grind the dried plant matter into an extremely fine and even powder so that the active chemicals within them are distributed evenly across itself. From here, one can slowly work their way up in extremely small increments until the correct dose for that particular plant is found.
Datura is a genus of nine species of flowering plants, also known as angel's trumpets and daturas. Due to its extensive cultivation and naturalization throughout the temperate and tropical regions, it is found in most areas of the world. There are nine identified species:
*''D. ceratocaula''
*''D. discolor ''
*''D. ferox''
*''D. inoxia''
*''D. leichhardtii''
*''D. metel''
*''D. quercifolia''
*''D. stramonium''
*''D. wrightii''
=Toxicity and Harm Potential=
It is strongly advised that one avoid using datura altogether. Otherwise, extreme caution and [[responsible drug use|harm reduction practices]] should be used, such as having a sober and prepared [[trip sitter]] present throughout the experience.
In traditional cultures, a great deal of experience with and detailed knowledge of Datura was critical to minimize harm.[4] Many tragic incidents result from modern users ingesting Datura. For example, in the 1990s and 2000s, the United States media contained stories of adolescents and young adults dying or becoming seriously ill from intentionally ingesting Datura.[7][8] There are also several reports in the medical literature of deaths from D. stramonium and D. ferox intoxication.[9][10][11] Children are especially vulnerable to atropine poisoning, and their prognosis is likely to be fatal.[12][13]
In some parts of Europe and India, Datura has been a popular poison for suicide and murder. From 1950 to 1965, the State Chemical Laboratories in Agra, India, investigated 2,778 deaths caused by ingesting Datura.[4][14]
===Tolerance and addiction potential===
The use of datura can be considered [[Addiction potential::mildly addictive with a high potential for adverse side effects such as psychosis]]. Datura is reported to be significantly less addictive than than other substances because the vast majority of people who try it do not wish to repeat the experience.
==Lethal Dosage==
Tolerance to many of the effects of datura develops [[Time to full tolerance::with repeated use]]. This results in users having to administer increasingly large doses to achieve the same effects. After that, it takes about [[Time to half tolerance::3 - 7 days]] for the tolerance to be reduced to half and [[Time to zero tolerance::1 - 2 weeks]] to be back at baseline (in the absence of further consumption). Datura presents cross-tolerance with [[deliriant]]s, meaning that after the consumption of datura, all [[deliriant]]s will have a reduced effect.
The LD<sub>50</sub> for scopolamine in humans is 2µg/kg and for atropine is 33µg/kg.
It is extremely important to note however that the potency of plants varies wildly and there is no way for the common man to accurately measure the dosage. At high enough doses Datura becomes an incredibly toxic poison that can easily result in death, making Datura the most dangerous hallucinogen out there with accidental overdoses resulting in hospitalization not unheard of.
==Legal status==
{{legalStub}}
Datura grows naturally and is legal to grow, sell and consume in most parts of the world. It is, however, restricted within the following countries:
The safest way to ensure this does not happen is to grind the dried plant matter into an extremely fine and even powder so that the active chemicals within them are distributed evenly across itself. From here you can slowly work your way up in extremely small increments until the correct dosage for that particular plant is found.
*'''Australia:''' Datura is a Schedule I poison in Australia{{citation needed}}, but scopolamine is Schedule 4 (Prescription only) and a scopolamine analogue (hyoscine butylbromide) is available in over the counter drugs (e.g. Buscopan & others) to treat symptoms such as nausea, stomach pain and cramps. Datura and Brugsmansia are legal to process, but are illegal to cultivate without a license.{{citation needed}}
*'''Brazil:''' Datura (suaveolens Willd.) is illegal to grow, handle, possess, store, transport, import, export, prescribe, administer, sell and advertise.<ref>[https://www.planalto.gov.br/ccivil_03/_ato2004-2006/2006/lei/l11343.htm#:~:text=Art.%2033.%20Importar,5%2C%20de%202012) Article (''artigo'') 33, ''Lei nº 11.343 of 23/8/2006''], referring to chart E (''lista E'') of the ''Portaria SVS/MS nº 344 of 12/5/1998'', last amended by [https://www.in.gov.br/en/web/dou/-/resolucao-rdc-n-835-de-13-de-dezembro-de-2023-531033031 ''Resolução de Diretoria Colegiada - RDC nº 835 of 13/12/2023''], as of 29/2/2024.</ref>
*'''United Kingdom:''' Datura is illegal to produce, supply, or import under the Psychoactive Substance Act, which came into effect on May 26th, 2016.<ref>{{Citation | title=Psychoactive Substances Act 2016 | url=https://www.legislation.gov.uk/ukpga/2016/2/contents/enacted}}</ref>
*'''United States''': Datura is legal to produce, supply and import.
*'''California''': Except for legitimate medical purposes, a person may not possess or use the plant known as Datura stramonium
If you want to try datura despite all of its risks, you can grow it yourself using seeds purchased online or find a wild plant in your local area.
==See also==
==Tolerance and Addiction Potential==
*[[Responsible use]]
Tolerance forms quickly with datura use. There is no real addictive potential.
*[[Deliriant]]
*[[Entheogen]]
*[[Tropane alkaloids]]
*[[Diphenhydramine]] (DPH)
=Legal Issues=
==External links==
Datura grows naturally and is legal to grow, sell and consume in most parts of the world.
WARNING: Always start with lower doses due to differences between individual body weight, tolerance, metabolism, and personal sensitivity. See responsible use section.
DISCLAIMER: PW's dosage information is gathered from users and resources for educational purposes only. It is not a recommendation and should be verified with other sources for accuracy.
Datura (also known as devil's trumpet, moonflower, jimsonweed, devil's weed, hell's bells, thorn-apple, and many others) is a genus of nine species of poisonous flowering plants belonging to the family Solanaceae. Datura is known as a powerful and dangerous deliriant, used for shamanic and medical purposes, as well as poisons. They contain the potent anticholinergic substances scopolamine, hyoscyamine, and atropine primarily in their seeds and flowers.[1]
Datura's precise and natural distribution seem to be throughout most of the temperate and tropical regions of the globe, owing to its extensive cultivation and naturalization. The two most well-known species are Datura inoxia and Datura stramonium. Both have been used in a shamanic context for religious purposes on most continents since before recorded history throughout the ancient Americas, Europe, and India.[citation needed]
The potency of Datura is highly variable, as the potency varies depending on the mother plants age, the weather it was grown in and the location it was growing in. This makes Datura a highly dangerous substance to use as it can lead directly to death, it is highly advised the user does not start with a delirium inducing dosage and uses a scale to measure the dose (Although its never safe, despite the measuring tools you use.)
The principal psychoactive constituents of all datura plants are the tropane alkaloids scopolamine, hyoscyamine, and atropine. These constituents are structurally analogous compounds.
These tropane alkaloids contain a substituted tropane ring, a seven-membered ring with an N-methylated nitrogen bridge between R1 and R5. Scopolamine additionally has an oxygen bonded to R6 and R7 of this bicyclic structure to form a three membered oxirane ring. They also contain a propionic acid chain, CH3CH2COOH, which is substituted at R2 with an aromatic phenyl ring and at R3 with a hydroxyl group OH-. The propionic acid chain is linked at R1 through an oxygen atom to R3 of the substituted tropane ring to form an ether.
These compounds are secondary metabolites synthesized naturally by various plants. The ratio of these compounds in datura plants varies greatly depending on location, growing conditions, etc. The datura genus contains other chemical constituents, but limited research has been done on their properties. Scopolamine, hyoscyamine, and atropine have a stereocenter at R2 of their propionic chain. Hyoscyamine is the levorotorary enantiomer of atropine.
Scopolamine
Atropine
Hyoscyamine
Pharmacology
The alkaloids within datura exert their effects by acting as competitive antagonists at muscarinic acetylcholinereceptors, primarily muscarinic acetylcholine receptors M1 and M2. Although the precise mechanism is not understood. This inhibition of acetylcholine leads to delirium, sedation and intensely realistic hallucinations, alongside extremely uncomfortable, dysphoric and even dangerous physical side effects.
Each part of the Datura plant contains dangerous levels of the tropane alkaloids, atropine, hyoscyamine, and scopolamine, which are classified as deliriants, or anticholinergics. The risk of fatal overdose is high among uninformed users, and many hospitalizations occur among recreational users who ingest the plant for its psychoactive effects. Deliberate or inadvertent poisoning resulting from smoking jimsonweed and other related species has been reported.
Cultivation
Datura stramonium prefers rich, calcareous soil. Adding nitrogen fertilizer to the soil increases the concentration of alkaloids present in the plant. D. stramonium can be grown from seed, which is sown with several feet between plants. It is sensitive to frost, so should be sheltered during cold weather. The plant is harvested when the fruits are ripe, but still green. To harvest, the entire plant is cut down, the leaves are stripped from the plant, and everything is left to dry. When the fruits begin to burst open, the seeds are harvested.
Subjective effects
Disclaimer: The effects listed below cite the Subjective Effect Index (SEI), an open research literature based on anecdotal user reports and the personal analyses of PsychonautWikicontributors. As a result, they should be viewed with a healthy degree of skepticism.
It is also worth noting that these effects will not necessarily occur in a predictable or reliable manner, although higher doses are more liable to induce the full spectrum of effects. Likewise, adverse effects become increasingly likely with higher doses and may include addiction, severe injury, or death ☠.
Physical effects
The physical effects of datura can be described as extremely unpleasant and distressing to the extent that they make enjoying the experience impossible especially at common to heavy dosages.
Perception of bodily heaviness - The first noticeable sensation is having an extremely heavy body as if the gravity one is subject to has increased exponentially. This makes it extremely difficult and uncomfortable to move.
Spontaneous bodily sensations - Users commonly report all-encompassing, sharp and extremely painful jolts of electricity that spontaneously manifest themselves in a similar rhythm to hiccups.
Nausea or Nausea suppression - Datura can be used to treat nausea at low doses. At high, delirium-inducing doses, it can cause significant amounts of nausea, although it rarely leads to vomiting. In some rare cases bile reflux is possible.
Difficulty urinating and Frequent urination- This can be described as a feeling of concrete blocking the urethra, painfully conflicting with a frequent need to urinate.
Pupil dilation - Datura blocks receptors in the muscles of the eye that constrict pupil size.[citation needed] This can result in an extreme sensitivity to light which can last for weeks after the experience in certain cases, it also blocks the accommodation reflex, causing vision to be unfocused.[citation needed] Prolonged usage is reputed to cause blindness.[2]
Visual effects
Datura does not enhance the processing of visual stimuli in the same way that psychedelics do, Instead, it tends to degrade and decrease visual aptitude while increasing hallucinations and perceptual delusions.
Suppression
Visual acuity suppression - This effect can blur the vision to the point where it can be impossible to read. This blurring of the vision can potentially last for days after the experience. [3]
Drifting(melting, breathing, morphing and flowing) - In comparison to other hallucinogens, this effect can be described as intricate in complexity; jittery, slow and rigid in motion; static in permanence; realistic in believability and interactive in plasticity
Datura is extremely efficient at inducing delirious hallucinations which can be broken into the categories described below:
External hallucination (autonomous entities; settings, sceneries, and landscapes; perspective hallucinations and scenarios and plots) - In comparison to other classes of hallucinogen, this effect occurs more frequently than that of any other at moderate to heavy doses and is the defining feature of the experience. It can be comprehensively described through its variations as delirious in believability, autonomous in controllability and solid in style. The most common themes for these hallucinations include those of everyday occurrences such as smoking phantom cigarettes, talking to people who are not there, insects and sinister, nightmarish experiences.
Internal hallucination (autonomous entities; settings, sceneries, and landscapes; perspective hallucinations and scenarios and plots) - In comparison to other classes of hallucinogen, this effect occurs briefly and spontaneously at moderate doses but becomes progressively extended in its occurrence and duration proportional to dosage before eventually becoming all-encompassing. It can be comprehensively described through its variations as delirious in believability, interactive in style, equal in new experiences and memory replays in content, autonomous in controllability and solid in style.
The cognitive effects of datura are described by many as generally negative and dysphoric, often consisting of extreme paranoia and feelings of impending doom. Like other deliriants, datura is confusing and disorienting, often leading to a complete inability to communicate or understand normal language.
Sleepiness - In terms of its effects on the user's physical energy levels, datura is commonly considered to be extremely tiring.
Wakefulness - Even though datura is a depressant overall and causes sleepiness, it has stimulant effects on the body, which can also keep the user awake. This effect predominates sleepiness at higher dosages.
Motivation suppression - Datura can cause complete loss of motivation to do anything. This is often accompanied by depression and can make the user extremely bored.
Increased libido - Datura stramonium seeds have been known to increase libido and sex drive for a number of its users. Throughout history and still today dried datura seeds have even been boiled or made into ointments with various other ingredients added and occasionally other psychoactive substances which were often applied to the genitals for treating sexual impotency. This however is not recommended due to the plant's unpredictable levels of toxicity.
Amnesia - In some cases this has been known to lead to anterograde amnesia which is a persisting negative effect on the user's memory capacity that occurs even after the experience has ended. This effect causes one to have difficulty forming new memories directly after and as a result of an amnesic episode.
Cognitive dysphoria - The levels of dysphoria experienced, however, vary between people with a very small percentage of users reporting that they do not seem to experience them at all.
Delirium - This possible after effect is not as consistent or as long lasting usually but can be more likely to present itself if taken consecutively or in high dosages. In rare circumstances or when taken too frequently, this can display itself in the form of temporary or even long-term psychosis and a general disconnection from reality.
Visual acuity suppression - This often consists of a feeling of being temporarily farsighted and often renders one unable to read due to heavily blurred vision.
Experience reports
Anecdotal reports which describe the effects of this compound within our experience index include:
Due to its extensive cultivation and naturalization throughout the temperate and tropical regions, datura is found in most areas of the world. There are nine identified species:
This toxicity and harm potential section is a stub.
As a result, it may contain incomplete or even dangerously wrong information! You can help by expanding upon or correcting it. Note: Always conduct independent research and use harm reduction practices if using this substance.
Datura is known to be extremely unpredictable and has the potential to result in severe consequences, hospitalization or death. The toxicity and long-term health effects of regular datura usage do not seem to have been studied in any scientific context and the exact toxic dosage is unknown. This is because long-term datura usage is very rare and the vast majority of people who try it do not desire to repeat the experience.
In traditional cultures, a great deal of experience with and detailed knowledge of datura was critical to minimize harm.[4][5] Many fatal incidents result from modern users ingesting datura. For example, in the 1990s and 2000s, the United States media contained stories of adolescents and young adults dying or becoming seriously ill from intentionally ingesting datura.[6][7] There are also several reports in the medical literature of deaths from D. stramonium and D. ferox intoxication.[8][9][10] Children are especially vulnerable to atropine poisoning and their prognosis is likely to be fatal.[11][12]
In some parts of Europe and India, datura has been a popular poison for suicide and murder. From 1950 to 1965, the State Chemical Laboratories in Agra, India investigated 2,778 deaths caused by ingesting datura.[4][5][13]
Psychosis
Datura has been reported to cause psychosis and delirium at a significantly higher rate than other hallucinogens like LSD, ketamine, or DMT. There are a large number of experience reports online which describe states of psychotic delirium, amnesia, and other serious consequences after abusing the drug. In many cases, it has resulted in hospitalization and death.
Lethal dosage
There can be a 5:1 potency variation between plants and a given plant's toxicity depends on its age, where it is growing, and the local weather conditions. This variation makes datura exceptionally hazardous as a drug and there is no way for the common man to accurately measure the dosage of any given plant. Datura has been used for centuries in some cultures as a poison because of the presence of these substances.[4][5]
The safest way to prevent overdose is to grind the dried plant matter into an extremely fine and even powder so that the active chemicals within them are distributed evenly across itself. From here, one can slowly work their way up in extremely small increments until the correct dose for that particular plant is found.
It is strongly advised that one avoid using datura altogether. Otherwise, extreme caution and harm reduction practices should be used, such as having a sober and prepared trip sitter present throughout the experience.
Tolerance and addiction potential
The use of datura can be considered mildly addictive with a high potential for adverse side effects such as psychosis. Datura is reported to be significantly less addictive than than other substances because the vast majority of people who try it do not wish to repeat the experience.
Tolerance to many of the effects of datura develops with repeated use. This results in users having to administer increasingly large doses to achieve the same effects. After that, it takes about 3 - 7 days for the tolerance to be reduced to half and 1 - 2 weeks to be back at baseline (in the absence of further consumption). Datura presents cross-tolerance with deliriants, meaning that after the consumption of datura, all deliriants will have a reduced effect.
As such, it may contain incomplete or wrong information. You can help by expanding it.
Datura grows naturally and is legal to grow, sell and consume in most parts of the world. It is, however, restricted within the following countries:
Australia: Datura is a Schedule I poison in Australia[citation needed], but scopolamine is Schedule 4 (Prescription only) and a scopolamine analogue (hyoscine butylbromide) is available in over the counter drugs (e.g. Buscopan & others) to treat symptoms such as nausea, stomach pain and cramps. Datura and Brugsmansia are legal to process, but are illegal to cultivate without a license.[citation needed]
Brazil: Datura (suaveolens Willd.) is illegal to grow, handle, possess, store, transport, import, export, prescribe, administer, sell and advertise.[14]
United Kingdom: Datura is illegal to produce, supply, or import under the Psychoactive Substance Act, which came into effect on May 26th, 2016.[15]
United States: Datura is legal to produce, supply and import.
California: Except for legitimate medical purposes, a person may not possess or use the plant known as Datura stramonium
↑Freye, E. (2010). "Pharmacology and Abuse of Cocaine, Amphetamines, Ecstasy and Related Designer Drugs: A comprehensive review on their mode of action, treatment of abuse and intoxication". In Freye, E. Toxicity of Datura Stramonium. Springer Netherlands. pp. 217–218. doi:10.1007/978-90-481-2448-0_34. ISBN9789048124480.
↑Wood, G. B. (1856). A Treatise on Therapeutics, and Pharmacology: Or Materia Medica. Lippincott.
↑Michalodimitrakis, M., Koutselinis, A. (October 1984). "Discussion of "Datura stramonium: a fatal poisoning"". Journal of Forensic Sciences. 29 (4): 961–962. ISSN0022-1198.
↑Boumba, V. A., Mitselou, A., Vougiouklakis, T. (April 2004). "Fatal poisoning from ingestion of Datura stramonium seeds". Veterinary and Human Toxicology. 46 (2): 81–82. ISSN0145-6296.
↑Taha, S. A., Mahdi, A. H. (1984). "Datura intoxication in Riyadh". Transactions of the Royal Society of Tropical Medicine and Hygiene. 78 (1): 134–135. doi:10.1016/0035-9203(84)90196-2. ISSN0035-9203.
↑Djibo, A., Bouzou, S. B. (November 2000). "[Acute intoxication with "sobi-lobi" (Datura). Four cases in Niger]". Bulletin De La Societe De Pathologie Exotique (1990). 93 (4): 294–297. ISSN0037-9085.
