Is Datura Flower Poisonous?
Among numerous ornamental plants, the Datura flower attracts attention with its unique trumpet-shaped blooms. This plant, native to tropical regions, not only holds mysterious religious cultural symbolism but also sparks widespread discussion due to its hidden dangers. We will delve into its toxic characteristics and safety precautions from a scientific perspective.
Analysis of the Highly Toxic Components in Datura
Distribution of Toxicity in the Entire Plant
The entire Datura plant contains highly toxic alkaloids such as atropine and scopolamine, with the seeds being the most toxic (LD50 of just 0.1mg/kg). One mature seed can cause adult poisoning, and 3-5 seeds can be lethal. Leaf alkaloid content reaches 0.2%-0.7%, and the toxicity concentration of dried flowers is three times higher than that of fresh ones.
Mechanism of Poisoning
These alkaloids have central nervous system toxicity and anticholinergic effects, capable of crossing the blood-brain barrier to inhibit acetylcholine receptors. Poisoned individuals first experience glandular secretion inhibition, followed by neurological transmission disorders, ultimately leading to respiratory center paralysis.
Three Stages of Poisoning Symptoms Development
Initial Excitement Stage (0.5-2 hours)
Manifested as dry mouth, dilated pupils, and flushed skin, accompanied by increased talking, restlessness, and other symptoms of nervous excitement, body temperature can rise to above 38°C.
Intermediate Hallucination Stage (2-6 hours)
Patients experience blurred vision, hallucinations, and auditory hallucinations, with some exhibiting aggressive behavior. Electrocardiogram shows sinus tachycardia.
Advanced Suppression Stage (after 6 hours)
Patients enter a comatose state, showing signs such as shallow breathing (＜12 breaths/min) and hypotension (systolic pressure ＜90mmHg). Severe cases can lead to respiratory and circulatory failure.
Four-Step First Aid Treatment for Poisoning
Step One: Emergency Vomiting (Golden 20 Minutes)
Immediately stimulate the back of the throat with a tongue depressor and induce vomiting by drinking 500ml of warm saline solution (1:100 ratio). Note that vomiting is contraindicated in comatose patients.
Step Two: Activated Carbon Adsorption
Take medical activated carbon (50-100g for adults) to adsorb residual toxins in the digestive tract, which should be completed within one hour of poisoning.
Step Three: Application of Antidotes
Administer intravenous neostigmine (0.5-2mg) to counteract anticholinergic effects, combined with glucuronic acid lactone to promote toxin metabolism.
Step Four: Blood Purification
Severely poisoned individuals require hemoperfusion treatment, with a recommended cycle volume of 2000-2500ml, lasting for 2-3 cycles.
When planting in the garden, it is recommended to set up a protective barrier of over 1.2 meters high and hang warning signs. Educate children to recognize its ovate fruit and starry pubescent leaves, and wear protective gloves when pruning. Only by correctly understanding its potential risks can one ensure safety while enjoying the beauty of the flowers.