MEDICINAL PLANTS

The white henbane is a very tough grass, that although you can die in a year is usually endure two or three. The stems are fleshy, full of hairs long, thin and smooth, the stem and leaves are ovate shape, with some breasts on the edges and the veins protruding at the back. Along with the growth arises flowers, slightly tilted and supported by a small nipple. The similarity of this henbane with its congener, the dangerous black henbane is great, and it is necessary not to collect it if you do not know the difference between the two. It breeds in the cracks of walls, even at the foot of these, among debris and ruined houses, farmyards and in all places where man has left its mark. It is a species endemic to the Mediterranean countries.

FLOWERING

The white henbane blooms from March in sheltered coastal areas. If the environment is not too dry, flowering can be extended well into the summer. Interesting collection of leaves. Anyway, in regard to this plant, you just forget about everything that relates to handling home, since it is extremely dangerous if consumed recklessly.

APPLICATIONS

In terms of composition, one can say that is the same as that of his relative, the black henbane, only active ingredients found in smaller amounts. Recall that its active ingredient is more characteristic hyoscyamine, together with atropine and scopolamine. These three substances were also in the nightshade, another allied species. This plant serves mainly as a local analgesic, dilator of the pupil (mydriatic effect), sedative on the central nervous system, antispasmodic and antisecretory. These actions, well employed, can do much, but if accidentally consumed the plant can cause serious problems. In extreme cases, this herb poisoning produces drowsiness, delirium, convulsions and, if not treated early may be life-death. In the case of white henbane pharmacological actions are less marked, but not lower our guard should be ... We must not forget that ignorance can cause fatal accidents, and when all plants are very active these pernicious effects appear after the consumption of relatively low doses.

ADMINISTRATION

Since it is a toxic plant only discuss how to use it externally, but also should be careful because in certain areas of the body's absorption of chemicals may be higher. It can be applied as a poultice, for it leaves are heated, previously marinated in oil. The product thus obtained is used as friction to act as a pain reliever.

SUMMARY

FAMILY: Solanaceae
HABITAT: Balearic Islands
FLOWERING: March, until summer
PART USED: Sheets
CASTILIAN: Colecillas locas
CATALAN: Capseta, mamellera
BASQUE: Erabelarr

USES

Strong local analgesic, Antiasthmatic Leve, Mild sedative on CNS.