DOI: 10.33706/jemcr.1823743 ISSN: 2149-9934

Anticholinergic Intoxication Cases in the Emergency Department: Datura Stramonium Plant

Ayşe Başaran
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There are countless varieties of plants in nature. While it is known that some of these plants have properties that threaten human life, it is believed that others can be used to treat certain diseases by chewing, swallowing, drinking, smoking, or rubbing them. Commonly known as angel's trumpet, devil's apple, pipe flower, devil's weed, tatula, and sorcerer's herb, the Datura stramonium plant is frequently cultivated in Turkey due to its attractive appearance, yet its toxicity is not sufficiently recognized. Datura stramonium is a hallucinogenic plant belonging to the belladonna alkaloid family. When taken in large quantities, it can cause hallucinations, agitation, and delirium. Cigarettes made from its dried leaves are commonly used to treat asthma and bronchitis, while its seeds are taken orally to treat acne, eczema, hemorrhoids, and as an antispasmodic. Unintentional use for therapeutic purposes, accidental ingestion as food, or misuse to achieve hallucinogenic effects can cause fatal anticholinergic toxicity. This article presents five adult patients who were brought to the hospital with symptoms of dizziness, blurred vision, agitation, palpitations, and delirium after eating stuffed leaves made from Datura stramonium. In our study, we emphasize that the history of herbal intake must be investigated in patients presenting with anticholinergic symptoms, along with the use of toxic drugs and substances, and aim to contribute to the literature.

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