THE DRUG FILE
JIMSON WEED / DATURA STRAMONIUM
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Street Names
- jimson weed
- Jamestown weed
- angel's trumpet
- devil's trumpet
- devil's snare
- devil's seed
- mad hatter
- zombie cucumber
Description
Jimson weed is a plant that, when ingested, causes hallucinogenic and anticholinergic effects. This means that it affects the brain by acting on the neurotransmitter acetylcholine. This is what causes the hallucinations, delirium and confusion that occur when a person takes jimson weed. Jimson weed is taken by smoking the leaves of the plant in a cigarette, ingesting the seeds or leaves, or by brewing it into teas.
Origin and medical usage
Jimson weed originated in India, then later was imported to Europe and parts of North America. In ancient herbal medicine, jimson weed was used to internally treat people with epilepsy, madness and melancholy. Today, it has no medical usage as it is considered to be too toxic.
Short-term effects
The short-term effects of jimson weed include, but are not limited to, blurred vision, an increase in temperature, hallucinations, psychosis, euphoria, nausea, vomiting, decreased digestive tract mobility, lack of motor co-ordination, loss of consciousness, restlessness, delirium, confusion, flushed face, dilated pupils, rapid heart rate, seizures, constipation, difficulty urinating, respiratory depression, respiratory arrest and cardiac arrest.
Long-term effects
Not enough information is available about the long-term effects of jimson weed.
Withdrawal
Not enough information is available.
Legal status
Jimson weed is not scheduled under the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act, therefore it is not illegal or controlled by the law.
Signs that a person might be using
Signs that a person may be using jimson weed may include, but are not limited to, violent behaviour, shaking, dilated pupils, strong hallucinations, mumbling, blurred vision, confusion and change in behaviour.
