|
|
|
Belladonna is a narcotic, diuretic, sedative, antispasmodic and mydriatic. Its deadly character is due to the presence of the alkaloid atropine. Since every part of the plant is extremely poisonous, it should not be handled if there are any cuts or abrasions on the hands. The root is the most poisonous, the leaves and flowers less so, and the berries, least of all. It is rumored that an adult can eat two or three berries without injury, but dangerous symptoms appear if more are taken. Even though belladonna is so powerful in its action on the human body, the plant seems to have little affect on some other animals. Eight pounds of the herb were eaten by a horse without causing any injury, and an ass swallowed 1 pound of the ripe berries without any bad results. Rabbits, sheep, goats and swine eat the leaves, and birds often eat the seeds without any apparent effect. However, like humans, cats and dogs are very susceptible to the poison.
Belladonna has no action on the voluntary muscles, but the nerve endings of involuntary muscles are paralyzed by large doses. This paralysis affects the central nervous system, causing excitement and delirium. |
