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Angel's trumpet (Brugmansia and Datura species)
While some complementary and alternative techniques have been studied scientifically, high-quality data regarding safety, effectiveness, and mechanism of action are limited or controversial for most therapies. Whenever possible, it is recommended that practitioners be licensed by a recognized professional organization that adheres to clearly published standards. In addition, before starting a new technique or engaging a practitioner, it is recommended that patients speak with their primary healthcare provider(s). Potential benefits, risks (including financial costs), and alternatives should be carefully considered. The below monograph is designed to provide historical background and an overview of clinically-oriented research, and neither advocates for or against the use of a particular therapy.

Related Terms

  • Alkaloid, alkaloids, Andes datura, angel's-tears, angel's trumpet tea, anticholinergic, apple-peru, Atlinan (Aztec), atropine, baumartige Engelstrompete (Dutch), borrachero, Brugmansia, Brugmansia arborea, Brugmansia aurea, Brugmansia candida, Brugmansia sanguinea, Brugmansia suaveolens, Brugmansia versicolor, campana (Spanish), chamico, concombre-zombi (Caribbean French), Datura candida, Datura condida, Datura cornigera, Datura fastuosa, Datura ferox, Daturainnoxia, Datura meteloides, Datura metel, Daturatatula, Datura, Datura arborea, Datura inoxia, Datura stramonium, Datura suaveolens, Datura wrightii, devil's cucumber, devil's trumpet, devil's weed, dhatūrā (Hindi), downy thornapple, floripondio (Spanish), golden angel's trumpet, herbe aux sorciers (Caribbean French), hyoscine, hyoscyamine, Iresine herbstii (Amaranthaceae), jimson weed, jimsonweed, kubijara, Lagerheim, maikoa, man-t'o-lo (Chinese), orange angel's trumpet, pricklyburr, red angel's trumpet, red floripontio, San Pedro cactus, scopolamine, serotonin, shredded white, Solanaceae (family), toloache (Aztec), tree datura, thornapple, trumpet lilies, weissliche Engelstrompete (German), white angel's trumpet.

Background

  • Angel's trumpet is a common name for two closely related genera in the family Solanaceae: Brugmansia, comprising woody plants with pendulous flowers and Datura, comprising herbaceous plants with erect flowers. Some species formerly included in Datura are now classified in the separate genus Brugmansia.
  • Angel's trumpet has a long history of use in native Central and South American cultures. There is archaeological evidence of the use of this herb for medicinal purposes in pre-Colombian times in northern Peru as far back as 1500 B.C. Use of angel's trumpet continues into contemporary times as Andean shamans ritually use the herb in healing rites and in order to diagnose disease.
  • Parts of the angel's trumpet contain the poisonous belladonna alkaloids atropine, scopolamine, and hyoscyamine. In the 1990s and 2000s, the U.S. media reported stories of adolescents and young adults dying or becoming seriously ill from intentionally ingesting angel's trumpet. Because of the high potential for overdose and accounts indicating the rising rates of this herb as a hallucinogen by teenagers in the United States, medicinal uses are often discouraged. Angel's trumpet is considered poisonous and it is on the U.S. Food and Drug Administration's (FDA) Poisonous Plants List.

Evidence

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Dosing

The below doses are based on scientific research, publications, traditional use, or expert opinion. Many herbs and supplements have not been thoroughly tested, and safety and effectiveness may not be proven. Brands may be made differently, with variable ingredients, even within the same brand. The below doses may not apply to all products. You should read product labels, and discuss doses with a qualified healthcare provider before starting therapy.

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Safety

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration does not strictly regulate herbs and supplements. There is no guarantee of strength, purity or safety of products, and effects may vary. You should always read product labels. If you have a medical condition, or are taking other drugs, herbs, or supplements, you should speak with a qualified healthcare provider before starting a new therapy. Consult a healthcare provider immediately if you experience side effects.

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Interactions

Most herbs and supplements have not been thoroughly tested for interactions with other herbs, supplements, drugs, or foods. The interactions listed below are based on reports in scientific publications, laboratory experiments, or traditional use. You should always read product labels. If you have a medical condition, or are taking other drugs, herbs, or supplements, you should speak with a qualified healthcare provider before starting a new therapy.

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Author Information

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References

Natural Standard developed the above evidence-based information based on a thorough systematic review of the available scientific articles. For comprehensive information about alternative and complementary therapies on the professional level, go to www.naturalstandard.com. Selected references are listed below.

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The information in this monograph is intended for informational purposes only, and is meant to help users better understand health concerns. Information is based on review of scientific research data, historical practice patterns, and clinical experience. This information should not be interpreted as specific medical advice. Users should consult with a qualified healthcare provider for specific questions regarding therapies, diagnosis and/or health conditions, prior to making therapeutic decisions.