The medicinal properties of Atropa Belladonna can quickly be over shadowed by the poisonous properties. If used in the right amounts, Belladonna is an extremely effective analgesic and antispasmodic. Strangely, it is also a common antidote to poisoning from certain types of mushroom, some insecticides and even nerve gas.
What is Atropa Belladonna?
In the 16th century in Italy, many women would put the sap from a Belladonna plant into their eyes. People used belladonna to dilate the pupils. They believed this created a dark-eyed appearance considered attractive. Nowadays, we still use Belladonna in a similar, yet less esthetic, manner.
What Are Common Medicinal Uses For Atropa Belladonna
Today, healthcare professionals use belladonne alkaloids to relax smooth muscles. They also use these compounds to dilate pupils before eye examinations and surgery.
Belladonna relaxes the smooth muscles of the stomach, intestines, and bile ducts. It may help relieve spasms and discomfort. Healthcare professionals have also used belladonna to relax the bronchial muscles and support easier breathing in asthma. Atropine, one of the major Alkaloids in Belladonna, is an effective remedy for whooping cough, hay fever, bradycardia, and Parkinson’s. It works on the parasympathetic nervous system, which controls our involuntary processes such as digestion, breathing and regulating heart beat. It works by first exciting the nervous system and then depressing it.
Who Would Benefit From This Herbal Supplement?
Individuals with Parkinson’s disease have found relief from tremors, paralysis and improvements in both speech and motility with the use of Belladonna. Healthcare professionals also use belladonna compounds as local anesthetics in selected medical applications.
Homeopathic belladonna preparations contain highly diluted amounts of the herb. These dilutions greatly reduce concerns about toxicity. Homeopaths often prescribe Belladonna for children who are feverish with a hot, red or flushed face and glazed over eyes. Healthcare professionals have prescribed belladonna to help manage restless sleep associated with neurological pain or convulsive movements.
Taking Atropa Belladonna
Atropine is one of belladonna's best-known anticholinergic alkaloids. Healthcare professionals use atropine to help restore heart function during emergencies, including CPR. Because atropine is highly potent, trained professionals must administer it carefully.
As a plant, as little as 5 berries can be fatal for children and one small leaf can poison an adult. Manufacturers prepare belladonna supplements from the dried leaves and roots. They produce powders, dry extracts, and liquid tinctures.
Research suggests adults can safely consume up to 1.8mg of total belladonne alkaloids daily in divided doses. A single dose should not exceed 0.6mg of total alkaloids.The dosage for children will vary, so be sure to consult your MD or Naturopath before using Belladonna. Individuals with a nightshade allergy (bell peppers, potatoes, eggplant) should also avoid Belladonna. Even at dilute concentrations, Belladonna may cause redness of the skin, flushing, dry skin, hives and sun sensitivity. Be careful when going out into the sun unprotected if using Belladonna or Atropine containing medications.
Cautions & Side Effects
Anticholinergic drugs and herbs interact with many other prescribed medications. Speak with your MD, Naturopath or Pharmacist before starting any antichoinergic medication. It is not recommended during pregnancy or while breastfeeding.
