Leaves and seed of Datura stramonium Linné (Nat. Ord. Solanaceae). Stramoine, Fr.; Stechapfel, Ger.

Stramonii Folia

Stramonium-leaves.

Stramonii Semen

Stramonium-seed.

Extractum Stramonii Seminis

Extract of stramonium-seed. Dose, gr. 1/6—gr. ss.

Tinctura Stramonii Seminis

Tincture of stramonium-seed. Dose, τη v— 3 ss.

Extractum Stramonii Seminis Fluidum

Fluid extract of stramonium-seed. Dose, τη j—τη v.

Composition

The alkaloid of stramonium—daturine—is chemically and physiologically nearly identical with atropine. It is contained in the seeds in the proportion of about one tenth per cent, and in the leaves in much smaller quantity. It exists in the plant in combination with malic acid. The seeds contain a fixed oil in considerable quantity.

Antagonists, Incompatibles, and Synergists, are the same as for belladonna. In the case of poisoning by stramonium, which is not uncommon in this country, the seeds, which usually are taken by children, must be evacuated by an emetic. Unless distinct symptoms follow, no further treatment may be necessary; if, however, marked dilatation of the pupil, hallucinations, and active delirium are produced, the physiological antagonist becomes necessary. Tincture of opium should be administered until some contraction of the pupil, lessening of the pulse-rate, and cessation of the delirium, occur. If, then, normal sleep comes on, the pupil, heart, and lungs functionating normally, no further interference will be necessary. In cases of poisoning in children, it is particularly desirable to employ the opium with caution, since opium narcosis may readily be substituted for stramonium-poisoning