Diagnosis of Dhatura Poisoning: a Comparative Study of the Signs and Symptoms as per Ayurvedic and Modern Classics

Abstract

The incidence of Dhatura poisoning is not uncommon. It can occur accidentally due to chewing of the seed with rice or other eatables. Previously accidental exposure to this poison was more when the plant was available abundantly. But now the availability of this plant is gradually reducing but the incidence of its use as hallucinogen is increasing. Dhatura or “Road Poison” is surreptitiously used with betel leaf, tea etc. to rob travellers as it stupefies the person. The victims are commonly rescued from the roadside in a semiconscious state. They can recall only some parts of the incident that had happened. Diagnosis of Dhatura poisoning, as per the Modern texts, can be done basing upon the 9Ds (9 signs and symptoms started with “D”). In Ayurvedic Classics i.e. in Charaka and Susruta Samhita, there is no discussion regarding the signs and symptoms of Dhatura poisoning. Astanga Sangraha/ Hridaya and some Nighantus (Pharmacopoea) discussed on the point which may be taken as criteria for diagnosis of Dhatura poisoning.