Datura

Datura metel

Datura metel, also known as Jimsonweed or Indian Jimsonweed, is a traditional plant used in Ayurvedic and folk medicine. Its use primarily revolves around its psychoactive properties, though no specific traditional uses have been recorded for this particular species. Scientific evidence suggests that combined consumption of D. metel and alcohol may negatively impact the liver and prefrontal cortex in experimental rats, indicating potential hepatotoxic effects. Computational analyses indicate four phytochemicals from Datura metel could be effective EGFR inhibitors against lung cancer, though further research is needed to validate these findings. A glycoglycerolipid compound from Bacillus velezensis DM showed dose-dependent reduction in melanin levels but did not significantly protect against UVB-induced damage or exhibit anti-allergic activity. Chemoinformatics analysis of Datura metel alkaloids identified 10 potential lead-like compounds with drug-like properties, suggesting possible therapeutic applications, though these findings are preliminary and require further investigation. No major safety issues have been recorded for Datura metel, but given its psychoactive nature, caution is advised. There are no reported drug interactions, although the plant's effects on the central nervous system may warrant careful consideration in individuals with specific health conditions or those taking medications that affect this system.

At a glance
Best evidence
D
Cautions

Informational only. Traditional use does not mean proven effectiveness. Evidence and safety vary — check the cited sources.

What the science says

  • Combined D. metel and alcohol consumption negatively impacted the liver and prefrontal cortex in experimental rats. D PMID
  • The study identified a glycoglycerolipid compound from Bacillus velezensis DM that showed dose-dependent reduction in melanin levels but did not significantly protect against UVB-induced damage or exhibit anti-allergic activity. D PMID
  • Chemoinformatics analysis identified 10 potential drug-like alkaloids from Datura metel with tropane-class characteristics. D PMID
  • This study identifies four phytochemicals from Datura metel as potentially effective EGFR inhibitors against lung cancer, based on computational analyses. D PMID

Frequently asked questions

What is Datura?

Datura (Datura metel) is a plant documented in FolkKB's traditional-medicine reference, drawn from sourced literature and cross-checked against the evidence.

What does the scientific evidence say about Datura?

4 sourced findings are recorded for Datura; the strongest carries evidence grade D. For example: Combined D. metel and alcohol consumption negatively impacted the liver and prefrontal cortex in experimental rats.

How strong is the evidence for Datura?

The strongest finding for Datura carries evidence grade D — preliminary or traditional. Grades run A (strongest) to D (preliminary or traditional).

Is Datura safe? What are the side effects?

No major safety issues are recorded for Datura in our sources, but the data may be incomplete. Consult a qualified professional before use.

Does Datura interact with medications?

No drug interactions are recorded for Datura in our sources. This does not rule them out — check with a pharmacist.

What are the common names of Datura?

Datura is also known as: Дурман индийский, Datura métel, Métel.

Is Datura a proven treatment?

No. FolkKB is informational only. Traditional use and early findings are not proof of efficacy or safety — consult a qualified professional and never self-treat.

Sources

  1. T2 Identification of Datura metel phytochemicals as potential EGFR inhibitors in lung cancer. literature abstract metadata
  2. T2 Chemoinformatic analysis of alkaloids of Datura metel and Datura stramonium species: insights from chemical space and diversity analysis. literature abstract metadata
  3. T2 Metabolite profiling of Bacillus velezensis DM extract linked to the rhizosphere of Datura metel L. and dermatoprotective potential of an isolated glycoglycerolipid. literature abstract metadata
  4. T2 Datura metel and Alcohol Cocktail Potentiates Hepatic Encephalopathy by Exacerbating Impairment via the Hepato-Prefrontal Cortical Axis. literature abstract metadata