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Poisoned after Dinner: Dolma with Datura Stramonium
Nezihat Rana Disel1, Mustafa Yilmaz2, Zeynep Kekec1
1Department of Emergency Medicine, Cukurova University, Faculty of Medicine, Adana, Turkey.
Turkish Journal of Emergency Medicine
|July 21, 2016
Summary
Datura stramonium, or Jimson Weed, is a toxic plant causing poisoning when ingested. This case highlights accidental poisoning from consuming datura flowers in a traditional meal, with all patients recovering fully.
Area of Science:
- Toxicology
- Ethnobotany
- Plant Chemistry
Background:
- Datura stramonium (Jimson Weed) is a toxic plant containing potent alkaloids like atropine, scopolamine, and hyoscyamine.
- Historically abused for hallucinogenic properties, it can cause poisoning through herbal medication overdose or food contamination.
Observation:
- A family of three experienced poisoning after consuming "dolma" prepared with datura flowers.
- The poisoning was accidental, stemming from the plant's inclusion as a food ingredient.
Findings:
- All three family members survived the Datura stramonium poisoning without fatal complications.
- Patients were treated and discharged in healthy condition.
Implications:
- Accidental ingestion of Datura stramonium as a food ingredient is a potential public health risk.
- Increased awareness and public education regarding the toxicity and effects of Jimson Weed are crucial to prevent future poisonings.