Datura is the root of the plant Datura in the family Euphorbiaceae. It is used in medicine to promote blood circulation, stop bleeding, and relieve itching caused by insect bites. However, due to the toxic substances contained in the whole plant of Datura, it is important to use it with caution.
[Preparation of Datura]
In autumn and winter, dig out the roots, wash away the soil, soak them in rice water for 3 days, then soak them in lime water for 3 days. Take them out, wash away the lime, boil them in a pot for 2 hours, and then slice and dry them.
The root of Datura is cylindrical, conical, or spindle-shaped, with a diameter of 1-8 cm. The outer skin is yellow-brown and has longitudinal wrinkles. It has a powdery texture, and the cross-section is yellowish-white with alternating convex and concave concentric rings. It is warm in nature, with a pungent and bitter taste, and highly toxic.
When harvesting, avoid contact between the sap and the skin, as it can cause allergic reactions. It is not recommended for pregnant women and those with weak constitution.
[Medicinal Value of Datura]
Datura is found in Taiwan, Sichuan, Yunnan, and other places, growing in grasslands, slopes, shrubs, and sparse forests at altitudes of 200-3300 meters.
In Yunnan, Datura is used as a traditional Chinese medicine. Its root is used to stop bleeding, reduce inflammation, dispel wind, and reduce swelling. It is used to treat symptoms such as ascites in liver cirrhosis, itchy skin, and scabies, with good results.
Datura for treating scabies and skin diseases: grind Datura and Sichuan pepper into fine powder, mix with sesame oil or lard, and apply it topically (avoid wind).
[Toxicity Analysis of Datura]
The whole plant of Datura contains daturatine, saponins, butyric acid, and toxic substances such as crotonic acid. When harvesting, avoid contact between the sap and the skin, as it can cause allergic reactions, resulting in facial swelling.
Symptoms of poisoning include abdominal pain, diarrhea, vomiting, restlessness, and decreased blood pressure. In severe cases, dizziness, unsteady gait, and convulsions may occur.
First aid measures: 1. Gastric lavage, sedation, and intravenous infusion; 2. Drink almond water (9 grams); 3. Drink white-flower water (9 grams); 4. Drink licorice (9 grams), mung beans (15 grams), and dried ginger (9 grams) boiled in water.
