Short Communication Open Access Effects of Atropa belladonna as an Anti-Cholinergic

Atropa belladonna, commonly known as ‘deadly nightshade ’ or ‘Belladonna ’ is known to be extremely toxic. The toxicity is caused by the alkaloids atropine, scopolamine and hyoscyamine which are produced in the plant. The alkaloids present in Atropa belladonna have toxic anti-cholinergic effects on the body. The anti-cholinergic toxidrome affects both central and peripheral nervous system, causing acute delirium, hallucination, tachycardia, dry mouth, flushed skin, vomiting and blurry vision. Both medicinal and toxic anti-cholinergic effects produced by Atropa belladonna alkaloids atropine, scopolamine and hyoscyamine on central and peripheral nervous system are discussed in this study