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Deadly nightshade, Atropa belladonna
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Deadly nightshade, Atropa belladonna
Deadly nightshade, Atropa belladonna. Handcoloured copperplate engraving from Dr. Willibald Artus Hand-Atlas sammtlicher mediinisch-pharmaceutischer Gewachse, (Handbook of all medical-pharmaceutical plants), Jena, 1876
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Media ID 23152092
© Florilegius/Mary Evans
Artus Atropa Belladonna Deadly Gewachse Hand Atlas Handbook Herbal Medical Pharmaceutical Mediinisch Pharmaceutischer Nightshade Poison Sammtlicher Toxic Willibald
EDITORS COMMENTS
Deadly Nightshade, Atropa belladonna, is a highly toxic plant that has captivated the attention of botanists, herbalists, and poison experts for centuries. This stunning handcoloured copperplate engraving is an exquisite example of the meticulous detail and artistic skill found in Dr. Willibald Artus's Hand-Atlas sammtlicher mediinisch-pharmaceutischer Gewachse, published in Jena, Germany, in 1876. The Deadly Nightshade plant is easily recognizable by its bell-shaped, pale purple to pink flowers and glossy, oval-shaped leaves. However, its beauty is deceiving, as all parts of the plant contain powerful alkaloids, including atropine, scopolamine, and hyoscyamine, which can cause hallucinations, delirium, and even death if ingested or handled carelessly. Historically, Deadly Nightshade was used in various traditional medicinal practices due to its potent medicinal properties. The alkaloids were used to treat conditions such as Parkinson's disease, gastrointestinal disorders, and eye conditions. However, the risks of using this plant were significant, and its use was often restricted to experienced practitioners. This beautiful and intricately detailed engraving not only serves as a testament to the artistic and scientific achievements of the late 19th century but also as a reminder of the complex and sometimes dangerous relationship between humans and the natural world. The Deadly Nightshade plant, with its alluring beauty and deadly consequences, continues to fascinate and intrigue us, offering a glimpse into the rich history of botanical discovery and exploration.
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