Deadly Nightshade, also known as Atropa Belladonna, is a poisonous plant native to Europe, North Africa, and Western Asia. It has been used as a poison throughout history due to its ability to cause hallucinations and death.
In ancient Rome, deadly nightshade was used as a poison by assassins and was believed to be the poison used to kill the Roman Emperor Augustus. The plant was also used by witches in the Middle Ages to create potions and ointments that were believed to have magical properties.
In more recent history, deadly nightshade has been used as a poison in a number of high-profile cases. In the 19th century, it was used by English wife and mother Madeleine Smith to poison her lover, and in the 20th century, it was used by cult leader Charles Manson to poison a judge.
Despite its toxic properties, deadly nightshade has also been used for medicinal purposes. The plant contains atropine, which can be used as a muscle relaxant and to treat conditions such as asthma and glaucoma. However, it must be used with caution due to its potential to cause hallucinations and death in high doses.
It is important to note that deadly nightshade is a highly poisonous plant and should not be ingested or handled without proper training and protective measures. If ingested, it can cause symptoms such as dilated pupils, hallucinations, confusion, difficulty speaking and swallowing, and even coma and death.
