From witches' potions to modern medicine
In recent decades, medicine is one of the sectors that have evolved the most, particularly with the rise of artificial intelligence. But certain unusual plants used by witches for their potions are still used in the field of pharmacology.
The first example is that of belladonna, or Atropa belladonna in Latin, which is both a poison and a medicine. Also known as “deadly nightshade”, belladonna means “beautiful woman” in Italian, since it was used during the Renaissance by women to dilate their pupils and appear more attractive, using the juice of these berries.
Although it helps beautify, belladonna is extremely toxic. Indeed, its alkaloids, naturally produced chemicals, block the action of an essential neurotransmitter, causing hallucinogenic and potentially fatal effects.
Today, belladonna is still used by doctors, no longer to make a person more attractive but to dilate the pupils during eye exams, to treat bradycardia or even as an antidote in cases of poisoning by certain pesticides and chemical warfare agents.
However, taking this herb remains unsafe for some health agencies, especially for infants and people who are taking other medications that may increase the risk of side effects, including antihistamines, antidepressants, and antipsychotics.
Mandrake, the plant with its deadly cry
Another plant once used by witches and which continues to be used in modern medicine is mandrake. Mandragora officinarum of its Latin name was known in witchcraft circles as an amulet for fertility and protection, as well as for making love potions, particularly because of its hallucinogenic effects.
The history of mandrake dates back to ancient Greece. Its roots, often in the shape of a small human body, have inspired numerous stories, from ancient Greek texts to the Bible, or even the legend according to which pulling it out of the ground would cause a death scream.
Like belladonna, mandrake contains alkaloids. In 2022, 88 medicinal uses based on this plant have been listed. The latter is in fact known to treat skin and digestive disorders, in particular intestinal muscle spasms.
However, this herb can block receptors in the brain and cause drowsiness, as can dermatitis, which is inflammation of the skin.
Mugwort, a Nobel Prize-winning plant
The last herb we'll refer to is mugwort, which was once used to enhance dreams and ward off evil spirits.
In traditional Chinese medicine, mugwort, or
Artemisia spp in Latin, is used in moxibustion, a practice of heating the plant near acupuncture points to promote healing.
In 2015, the Nobel Prize rewarded the discovery of artemisinin, an antimalarial compound extracted from a species of mugwort, Artemisia annuaor annual mugwort.
Nowadays, mugwort is used to alleviate irregular periods, menopausal symptoms as well as nervous disorders such as sleepwalking, seizures and anxiety.
The oil extracted from this plant is known to have antioxidant, antibacterial and antifungal properties. Animal studies published in 2016 in the journal Mediators of Inflammationalso showed that this oil may help treat inflammatory skin conditions by reducing the release of inflammatory chemicals from immune cells.
As with the other two examples cited in this article, mugwort can be dangerous for some, including causing allergic reactions.
Source: ScienceAlert
With an unwavering passion for local news, Christopher leads our editorial team with integrity and dedication. With over 20 years’ experience, he is the backbone of Wouldsayso, ensuring that we stay true to our mission to inform.
