Abstract

DATURA POISONING: A REVIEW OF TOXICITY, MECHANISMS, AND CLINICAL MANAGEMENT – AYURVEDIC AND MODERN PERSPECTIVES

Dr. Fayaz Ahmed Mohamed Ibrahim* and Dr. Akash Munjaba Chavan

ABSTRACT

Datura species (Datura stramonium, D. metel) are notorious for their toxic tropane alkaloids (atropine, scopolamine) but also hold a significant place in Ayurveda as "Kanaka" or "Unmatta" for treating asthma, pain, and psychiatric disorders. This review explores the dual nature of Datura—its traditional therapeutic uses in Ayurveda versus its life- threatening toxicity in modern medicine. We analyze the pharmacodynamics of tropane alkaloids, clinical manifestations ofpoisoning, Ayurvedic detoxification methods (shodhana), and modern antidotal therapies (physostigmine). By integrating traditional wisdom with contemporary toxicology, we propose a balanced approach to managing Datura poisoning while respecting its ethnomedicinal value.

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