Black Henbane (Noun)
Meaning
Poisonous fetid Old World herb having sticky hairy leaves and yellow-brown flowers; yields hyoscyamine and scopolamine.
Classification
Nouns denoting plants.
Examples
- The ancient Greeks used black henbane to induce a trance-like state in their patients, believing it to have medicinal properties.
- Black henbane is a highly toxic plant that can be fatal if ingested, and its use as a medicinal herb is no longer recommended.
- The sticky hairy leaves of the black henbane plant contain a chemical called atropine, which is used to dilate pupils.
- In medieval Europe, black henbane was used as a treatment for toothaches and rheumatism, despite its well-known poisonous properties.
- Black henbane grows in poor soil and can thrive in disturbed areas, making it a common weed in many parts of the world.