Jimson Weed
OTHER NAME(S): Datura stramonium, devil’s trumpet, jimson weed, jimsonweed, thornapple
Overview
Jimson weed is a plant called Datura stramonium. All parts of the plant, including the leaves, stems, seeds, and flowers, contain toxic chemicals that can be poisonous when taken by mouth. Although some people may use jimson weed to feel “high,” this can lead to serious health problems. Common side effects include blurry vision, dry mouth, confusion, fast heartbeat, and hallucinations. Serious side effects include effects on the brain and central nervous system (CNS). Before taking jimson weed, make sure to tell your health care provider about any health conditions you have or medicines you are taking.
Uses
What is jimson weed used for?
Jimson weed (Datura stramonium) is sometimes used recreationally to improve mood or feel “high.” However, all parts of the jimson weed plant are considered toxic and can cause serious side effects when taken by mouth.
Note: Jimson weed is not approved by the FDA for any use. The FDA has not reviewed jimson weed for safety and effectiveness.
How does jimson weed work (mechanism of action)?
Jimson weed refers to a plant called Datura stramonium. Many cultures have used jimson weed as a hallucinogen for rituals and ceremonies, as well as for various health purposes. However, the entire plant, including its leaves, flowers, stems, and seeds, contains toxic chemicals that can be poisonous when taken by mouth.
Although the use of jimson weed is now uncommon, it is still sometimes used recreationally by teenagers and young adults to cause a “high.” However, many people who use jimson weed to get high also experience unpleasant or serious side effects. Since jimson weed is a natural product, the amount of certain chemicals varies between each plant. If a specific plant contains slightly higher amounts of certain chemicals, it can increase the risk for serious side effects and even death. See the Side Effects section for more information.
How should I store jimson weed?
You should store jimson weed according to the product label. Most herbal products should be kept in a cool, dry location that is out of the reach of children and pets and not in direct sunlight.
Side Effects
What are the most common side effects of jimson weed?
The most common side effects of jimson weed are listed below. These side effects may vary depending on the dose you are using. Tell your health care provider if you have any of these side effects that bother you.
- Blurry vision
- Confusion
- Dry mouth
- Fast heartbeat
- Hallucinations (see below)
- Large (dilated) pupils
- Trouble with balance or coordination
There may be other side effects of jimson weed that are not listed here. Contact your health care provider if you think you are having a side effect of an herbal product. In the U.S., you can report side effects to the FDA at www.safetyreporting.hhs.gov or by calling 888-SAFEFOOD (888-723-3366). In Canada, you can report side effects to Health Canada at www.health.gc.ca/medeffect or by calling 866-234-2345.
What are the serious side effects of jimson weed?
While less common, the most serious side effects of jimson weed are described below, along with what to do if they happen.
Severe Allergic Reactions. Jimson weed may cause allergic reactions, which can be serious. Stop taking jimson weed and get help right away if you have any of the following symptoms of a serious allergic reaction.
- Breathing problems or wheezing
- Racing heart
- Fever or general ill feeling
- Swollen lymph nodes
- Swelling of the face, lips, mouth, tongue, or throat
- Trouble swallowing or throat tightness
- Itching or skin rash
- Bumps on the skin called hives that can be red, pink, white, or brown depending on your skin tone
- Nausea or vomiting
- Dizziness, feeling lightheaded, or fainting
- Stomach cramps
- Joint pain
Hallucinations.Jimson weed can cause hallucinations that may involve hearing, seeing, smelling, tasting, or otherwise perceiving things that others do not. These hallucinations may be the reason that some people take jimson weed. But some hallucinations can cause a negative or frightening experience, especially when combined with other side effects caused by jimson weed. See below for more information.
Changes in Heart Rate or Blood Pressure.Jimson weed may have effects on the heart, such as raising your heart rate or blood pressure. If you measure your blood pressure and the top number (systolic) is 180 or higher or the bottom number (diastolic) is 120 or higher, get medical attention right away. Also, call your health care provider or get medical attention right away if you have chest pain, a fast heartbeat, or if you feel your heartbeat more than usual.
Effects on the Brain or Central Nervous System (CNS). Jimson weed can affect your brain or central nervous system (CNS). Stop taking jimson weed and call your health care provider right away if you have any of the following symptoms of brain or CNS problems.
- Headache
- Dizziness
- Sleepiness
- Confusion
Precautions
Who should not use jimson weed?
Allergies to Ingredients. People who are allergic to any of the following should not take jimson weed.
- Datura stramonium
- Devil’s trumpet
- Jimson weed
- Thornapple
- Any of the ingredients in the specific product
Ask your health care provider if you are not sure what ingredients are in a jimson weed product.
What should I know about jimson weed before using it?
Jimson weed contains toxic chemicals that can cause serious health problems. Do not eat jimson weed or take products that contain jimson weed by mouth.
Some people have accidentally eaten jimson weed after mistaking it for another plant in the wild. It is important to use caution when foraging for food. Also, keep jimson weed out of the reach of children.
Jimson weed can affect your alertness or coordination. Do not drive or do other activities that require alertness or coordination until the effects of jimson weed have passed.
What should I tell my health care provider before using jimson weed?
Tell your health care provider about all of your health conditions and any prescription or over-the-counter (OTC) medicines, vitamins/minerals, herbal products, and other supplements you are using. This will help them know if jimson weed is right for you.
In particular, make sure that you discuss any of the following.
Current and Past Health Conditions.Tell your health care provider if you have any of the following.
- Heart problems
- High blood pressure
- Mental health problems, such as depression, a past suicide attempt, anxiety, hallucinations, paranoia, or psychosis
- History of misusing prescription medicines or street drugs
- Drink large amounts of alcohol
Other Medicines and Supplements.Jimson weed may interact with other medicines and supplements. Before taking jimson weed, tell your health care provider about any prescription or over-the-counter (OTC) medicines, vitamins/minerals, herbal products, and other supplements you are using. See the Interactions section for more details.
Pregnancy. It is not known if or how jimson weed could affect pregnancy or harm a fetus. But jimson weed can be toxic. Tell your health care provider if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant.
Breastfeeding. It is not known if jimson weed passes into breast milk, but jimson weed may cause harm to an infant or small child. Tell your health care provider if you are breastfeeding or plan to breastfeed.
Interactions
Does jimson weed interact with foods or drinks?
There are no known interactions between jimson weed and foods or drinks.
Drinking alcohol while taking jimson weed can increase the risk of serious side effects. Do not drink alcohol while taking jimson weed.
Does jimson weed interact with medicines (drug interactions)?
Always tell your health care provider about any prescription or over-the-counter (OTC) medicines, vitamins/minerals, herbal products, and other supplements you are using.
In particular, make sure that you discuss if you are using any of the following before taking jimson weed.
- Any anticholinergic medicines, including antihistamines and medicines commonly used for overactive bladder, Parkinson’s disease, or stomach problems
- Scopolamine (Transderm Scop), which is a patch used to reduce nausea or vomiting from motion sickness or surgery
- Any medicine that may cause dizziness and sleepiness, such as prescription pain medicines, sleep medicines, or medicines for anxiety
The interactions between jimson weed and medicines are not fully understood. As with most herbal products, the research on drug interactions with jimson weed is incomplete. Always check with your health care provider before taking jimson weed with any medicines.
Dosing
What should I do if I accidentally use too much jimson weed?
If you or someone else has used too much jimson weed, get medical help right away, call 911, or contact a Poison Control center at 800-222-1222.
Jimson weed can cause serious side effects. It is best to avoid its use entirely. If you are still interested in taking jimson weed, speak with a health care provider about how to take jimson weed safely. Do not take double or extra doses, even if you miss a dose.
References
- American Botanical Council: “JimsonWeed: History, Perceptions, Traditional Uses, and Potential Therapeutic Benefits of the Genus Datura.”
- CDC Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report (MMWR): “Jimsonweed poisoning associated with a homemade stew --- Maryland, 2008.”
- Planta Medica: “Datura stramonium – a dangerous weed and alternative drug of abuse: an overview of poisoning cases in 21st century.”
- Recovery Team: “Unpredictability of Mixing Hallucinogens and Alcohol.”
- US Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA): “Jimson Weed (Datura stramonium).”
- World Health Organization (WHO): “Hypertension.”