Black Henbane
Hyoscyamus niger
Hyoscyamus niger, commonly known as black henbane, is a traditional plant with origins in Europe and Asia. It has not been traditionally used for medicinal purposes in any recorded practices. Scientific evidence suggests that Hyoscyamus niger can be toxic, particularly in cases of poisoning where symptoms such as hyperactivity, euphoria, seizures, and acute kidney injury have been observed in children. In a hospital setting, an extract of the plant combined with propolis was found to reduce coughing, shortness of breath, and CRP levels in patients with COVID-19. Additionally, studies indicate that blue LED light and varying concentrations of glycine can enhance the production of atropine, scopolamine, and gallic acid in callus cultures of Hyoscyamus niger. There are no major safety concerns or reported drug interactions associated with this plant, though its use should be approached with caution due to potential toxicity.
- Best evidence
- B
- Cautions
- —
Informational only. Traditional use does not mean proven effectiveness. Evidence and safety vary — check the cited sources.
What the science says
- The study found that Hyoscyamus niger poisoning in a child could present with hyperactivity and euphoria without agitation.
- Hyoscyamus niger L. extract combined with propolis significantly reduced cough, shortness of breath, and CRP levels compared to placebo in hospitalized COVID-19 patients.
- The study found that using blue LED light and varying concentrations of glycine significantly increased the accumulation of atropine, scopolamine, and gallic acid in Hyoscyamus niger callus cultures.
- Henbane poisoning in children can result in severe symptoms including seizures and acute kidney injury.
Frequently asked questions
What is Black Henbane?
Black Henbane (Hyoscyamus niger) is a plant documented in FolkKB's traditional-medicine reference, drawn from sourced literature and cross-checked against the evidence.
What does the scientific evidence say about Black Henbane?
4 sourced findings are recorded for Black Henbane; the strongest carries evidence grade B. For example: The study found that Hyoscyamus niger poisoning in a child could present with hyperactivity and euphoria without agitation.
How strong is the evidence for Black Henbane?
The strongest finding for Black Henbane carries evidence grade B — moderate evidence. Grades run A (strongest) to D (preliminary or traditional).
Is Black Henbane safe? What are the side effects?
No major safety issues are recorded for Black Henbane in our sources, but the data may be incomplete. Consult a qualified professional before use.
Does Black Henbane interact with medications?
No drug interactions are recorded for Black Henbane in our sources. This does not rule them out — check with a pharmacist.
What are the common names of Black Henbane?
Black Henbane is also known as: Белена чёрная.
Is Black Henbane a proven treatment?
No. FolkKB is informational only. Traditional use and early findings are not proof of efficacy or safety — consult a qualified professional and never self-treat.
Sources
- T2 The influence of propolis plus Hyoscyamus niger L. against COVID-19: A phase II, multicenter, placebo-controlled, randomized trial. literature abstract metadata
- T2 Enhancing the accumulation of scopolamine and atropine in Hyoscyamus niger L. callus by LED light and glycine-a cheap method. literature abstract metadata
- T2 The toxicity of hyoscyamus niger (henbane) in children: a five-year experience in a pediatric intensive care unit. literature abstract metadata
- T2 Hyperactivity and Euphoria Without Agitation Due to Hyoscyamus niger (Henbane) Poisoning in a Child. literature abstract metadata