Datura metel

HABIT: A perennial herb or small shrub, it typically grows upright and can reach a height of 1 to 1.5 meters (3 to 5 feet). The plant has a branching habit with large, ovate to lanceolate leaves. The leaves are dark green and can be slightly hairy. It produces distinctive trumpet-shaped flowers that can be white, yellow, or purple, depending on the variety. The flowers are fragrant and can reach a length of 10 to 15 centimeters (4 to 6 inches). The plant forms a spiky fruit capsule that contains numerous small, black seeds.

CONSERVATION STATUS: Not evaluated

MEDICINAL USES: Datura metel has a wide range of medicinal uses. The seeds of Datura metel exhibit insecticidal activity against the cotton bollworm, while the shoot and root extracts have herbicidal properties against Phalaris minor, a problematic weed of wheat. The plant also shows potential anticancer activity, with compounds like withanolides and calystegines displaying various biological activities, including anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antitumor, and immunosuppressive properties. Datura metel demonstrates antifungal activity against several species of Aspergilli and Candida, while its extracts exhibit antibacterial properties against clinical bacterial isolates. The plant's seeds have been studied for their hypoglycemic and antihyperglycemic effects, suggesting potential use in managing diabetes. Additionally, Datura metel seeds and extracts possess free radical scavenging and antioxidant activities. These findings highlight the diverse medicinal properties of Datura metel, supporting its traditional uses in treating various ailments (Monira, K. M., & Munan, S. M. (2012). Review on Datura metel: A potential medicinal plant. Global Journal of Research on Medicinal Plants & Indigenous Medicine, 1(4), 123.).

ETHNOBOTANICAL USES: It has been employed in traditional medicine to address ailments such as asthma, cough, fever, pain, and digestive disorders. However, caution must be exercised as the plant contains potent alkaloids that can be toxic if used improperly. In addition, Datura metel has played a significant role in ritual and spiritual practices, where its hallucinogenic properties are believed to induce altered states of consciousness or spiritual experiences. The plant is also valued for its ornamental purposes, with its large and showy flowers adding beauty to gardens. Furthermore, it also has been used as a natural insect repellent, with its leaves or extracts believed to repel mosquitoes and other biting insects. It is important to approach the use of Datura metel with caution and seek guidance from experts or traditional practitioners due to its potential toxicity.