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Poisoning with Boophane disticha: a forensic case
W J du Plooy1, L Swart, G W van Huysteen
1Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, Medical University of Southern Africa, Pretoria.
Human & Experimental Toxicology
|July 31, 2001
Summary
Traditional use of Boophane disticha bulb scales for wound dressing contrasts with its dangerous oral toxicity. Ingesting a concoction caused severe hallucinations and violence due to alkaloids like buphanine.
Area of Science:
- Ethnobotany
- Pharmacology
- Toxicology
Background:
- Boophane disticha bulb scales have traditional uses in wound care.
- Oral ingestion of bulb concoctions is associated with severe adverse effects, including sedation, hallucinations, and potentially death.
Observation:
- A man ingested 150 ml of a bulb concoction, experiencing hallucinations and paranoia.
- His altered mental state led to violent behavior, resulting in one fatality and injuries.
Findings:
- Chemical analysis of the concoction identified alkaloids buphandrin, buphanine, and crinamidine, along with eugenol.
- Buphanine's pharmacological action resembles hyoscine, inducing agitation, hallucinations, and coma in toxic doses.
- Eugenol, a volatile oil, possesses analgesic properties.
Implications:
- The observed psychoactive and toxic effects are consistent with the presence of buphanine and other alkaloids in Boophane disticha.
- This case highlights the critical danger of ingesting traditional remedies without understanding their potent pharmacological properties.
- Further research into the specific toxicity profiles of compounds within Boophane disticha is warranted for public safety.