Datura

(Datura)
Sanskrit: धत्तूर • Botanical: Datura stramonium Linn.

Dhatura (Datura stramonium) is a well-known narcotic and poisonous plant extensively used in Ayurveda after proper purification (Shodhana). The text describes it as growing up to 3000 feet elevation, with spiny fruit capsules. It contains 0.40% total alkaloids including Hyoscyamine and Atropine. Seeds contain 0.2-0.45% alkaloids and 15-30% fixed oil. The plant has powerful analgesic, anti-inflammatory, and antispasmodic properties. It is applied externally for joint pain, swelling, and skin diseases. Smoke from leaves is used for asthma. The text emphasizes it is a Visha (poison) requiring Shodhana before therapeutic use. Multiple species are described including D. stramonium, D. metel, D. tatula, and D. innoxia.

Ayurvedic Properties

Taste (Rasa)
Bitter (Tikta), Astringent (Kashaya)
Quality (Guna)
Light (Laghu), Dry (Ruksha)
Potency (Virya)
Hot (Ushna)
Post-digestive (Vipaka)
Pungent (Katu)
Key Constituents
Hyoscyamine, Atropine, Hyoscine (Scopolamine), Chlorogenic acid
Also Known As
English: Datura, Thorn Apple, Jimsonweed
Sanskrit: धत्तूर, धत्तूरक, धूर्त, मातुल, उन्मत्त, कनक, मदन
Hindi: धतूरा, सफेद धतूरा

What is Datura / Thorn Apple (धतूरा / धत्तूर)?

Dhatura (Datura stramonium) is a well-known narcotic and poisonous plant extensively used in Ayurveda after proper purification (Shodhana). The text describes it as growing up to 3000 feet elevation, with spiny fruit capsules. It contains 0.40% total alkaloids including Hyoscyamine and Atropine. Seeds contain 0.2-0.45% alkaloids and 15-30% fixed oil. The plant has powerful analgesic, anti-inflammatory, and antispasmodic properties. It is applied externally for joint pain, swelling, and skin diseases. Smoke from leaves is used for asthma. The text emphasizes it is a Visha (poison) requiring Shodhana before therapeutic use. Multiple species are described including D. stramonium, D. metel, D. tatula, and D. innoxia.

Source: Bhavaprakash Nighantu, Varga 3

Therapeutic Actions (Karma)

  • Vedanasthapana (analgesic)
  • Shothahara (anti-inflammatory)
  • Krimighna (anthelmintic)
  • Jvarghna (antipyretic)
  • Vishahara (counteracts poison)
  • Madakari (intoxicating/narcotic)

Source: Bhavaprakash Nighantu, Varga 3

Datura by Condition

Explore how Datura is used for specific health concerns — with dosage, preparation methods, and classical references for each.

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Datura for Inflammation

Medical Disclaimer: The information on this page is for educational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Ayurvedic treatments should be pursued under the guidance of a qualified practitioner (BAMS/MD Ayurveda). Always consult your healthcare provider before starting any new treatment. Content is sourced from classical Ayurvedic texts and may not reflect the latest medical research.