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Nightshade Plants

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Substance

Angel's trumpet, belladonna, datura, henbane, mandrake

group

Hallucinogens, Delirium inhibitors

Effect

The effects are highly dependent on setting and dose. Individual differences in effects and sensitivity are significant. The experience can be mildly narcotic and altered in consciousness, ranging from mild sedation (or stimulation) and perceptual distortions to a total loss of touch with reality and control. Unlike classic psychedelics, genuine hallucinations can occur alongside pseudohallucinations. In extreme cases, one might see and converse with people who are not actually present. It is also possible to experience a feeling of being completely sober, only to realize moments later that one's connection to reality is entirely dissociated. The active ingredients include the alkaloids scopolamine, hyoscamine, and atropine.

Onset of action

When taken orally, the effect takes 20–120 minutes. When smoked, the effect is immediate.

Duration of effect

Depending on the dose and method of consumption, 5 hours to several days (!)

up to 10 days

Danger!

Due to its strong and difficult-to-assess potential effects, it is advisable to avoid taking other substances at the same time.

Substance groups

Risks and side effects

Common side effects include dilated pupils (sometimes lasting for several days), tingling on the skin, and severe dryness of the mucous membranes. The eyes also become sensitive to light. Other possible side effects include high fever, dizziness, staggering, impaired near vision, and temporary blindness, which can sometimes make it impossible to read handwriting for days. At high doses, memory loss, seizures, respiratory problems, and delirium may occur. The difference between the effective psychedelic dose and the toxic, potentially fatal, dose is small. Due to variations in the active ingredient from plant to plant, safe dosing is virtually impossible, further increasing the risk of poisoning. An overdose can lead to death from heart failure (resulting from tachycardia), hyperthermia, or respiratory paralysis.

Long-term risks

They are not researched.

Safer Use

  • Inexperienced users are strongly advised against using nightshade plants such as angel's trumpet, belladonna, thorn apple, henbane, and mandrake. Oral consumption, in particular, is often highly dangerous and unpredictable.

  • When smoked, the effects can be better controlled. Initially, tiny amounts should be used to gradually work up to a tolerable dose. When using ointments, the optimal dose should also be approached slowly, just as with smoking. If breaks are too short, the effects can accumulate over several days.

  • Eat only light food before consumption and drink plenty of fluids (preferably tea) during the trip.

  • Caution: It can take a long time for the high to kick in. Do not take more, as the dose will accumulate later, potentially leading to life-threatening poisoning.

  • If someone shows signs of severe distress after ingesting a nightshade plant, calming measures should be taken to create a relaxed environment, such as speaking to them calmly, turning off loud music, and moving them to a safe space. In cases of self-harm or endangering others, or symptoms of tachycardia, hyperthermia, or respiratory paralysis (blue lips, labored or shallow breathing), call emergency services immediately (Tel. 144).

  • Avoid consuming nightshade plants if you suffer from physical or mental illnesses.

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