Synopsis

Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 1

Belladonna (Atropa belladonna), also known as deadly nightshade, has a long history of use in traditional herbal medicine, including for bites and stings. Historically, Belladonna preparations were applied topically or taken internally in small, controlled doses to address pain, inflammation, and muscle spasms associated with various injuries, including insect bites and stings. The rationale stemmed from Belladonna’s anticholinergic alkaloids (notably atropine, scopolamine, and hyoscyamine), which can reduce secretions, relieve pain, and decrease localized inflammation.

Despite its traditional use, scientific evidence supporting Belladonna’s effectiveness for bites and stings is lacking. Modern clinical trials or robust animal studies specifically evaluating Belladonna for this purpose are not available. Furthermore, Belladonna is a highly toxic plant, and its use can cause serious side effects, including dry mouth, blurred vision, urinary retention, confusion, and potentially lethal poisoning. Its anticholinergic effects can be dangerous, particularly when used improperly.

In summary, while Belladonna has a basis in traditional medicine for treating bites and stings, this use is not backed by modern scientific evidence or clinical guidelines. Today, safer and more effective treatments are recommended for bites and stings, and the use of Belladonna for this purpose is discouraged due to its toxicity and lack of proven benefit.

More about Belladonna
More about Bites and Stings

Other ingredients used for Bites and Stings

Other health conditions supported by Belladonna

Products containing Belladonna