What is Atropa Belladonna?

Some of the most fascinating health benefits of Atropa belladonna include its ability to alleviate respiratory distress, improve the nervous system, calm the stomach, eliminate pain, reduce inflammation, promote restful sleep, soothe hormonal imbalances, reduce spasms, and lessen allergic reactions.

• One of the most famous and most deadly plants in the world is Atropa belladonna, or what is more commonly known as simply belladonna or deadly nightshade. 
• This perennial herbaceous plant has a long and legendary history, both in its traditional uses, and in literary, historical, and popular culture. 
• The specific alkaloids found in the berries and leaves is extremely toxic, and can cause hallucinations, illness, confusion, hysteria, and even death. [1] 
• At this point, you may be wondering why the title of this article is “Health Benefits” of Atropa belladonna, but even in ancient times, when prepared and handled properly, 
• the belladonna plant did have some valuable side effects that could be considered “beneficial” for human health.

Tinctures, decoctions, and powders derived from the belladonna plant have been in use for centuries, but due to the extreme toxicity of the plant, it is always recommended that you consult a herbalist or a medical professional before pursuing this ancient remedy. [2] 
The other use of belladonna has been as a recreational drug, but the ease with which one can overdose, and the severe, often permanently altering hallucinations have made this a very unpopular choice.

All of that being said, the potent chemicals and organic compounds found within Atropa belladonna make it quite appealing due to its effects on the body, when it’s prepared safely and correctly.
Now, let’s take a closer look at the health benefits of Atropa belladonna.

Health Benefits of Atropa Belladonna

Respiratory Distress
Although consuming deadly nightshade may not sound like the most pleasant experience, belladonna has been known to cut down on mucus production in the sinuses, and can also clear out the respiratory tracts of excess phlegm.
This helps to reduce respiratory illnesses, as many of the bacteria that get stuck in that phlegm and mucus cause those conditions. [3]

Stomach Disorders
The number of people suffering from Irritable Bowel Syndrome and other gastrointestinal issues seems to be growing, but belladonna tinctures have been shown to significantly soothe the stomach and reduce the cramping and discomfort that IBS often causes in so many people. [4]
This effect is partially due to the anti-inflammatory and sedative properties of the plant, which not only make them beneficial, but also deadly in too large of a quantity.

Improve the Nervous System
When you suffer from an affliction of the nervous system, it can often be an uncontrollable and embarrassing process where you truly feel that there is nothing you can do. [5] 
Spasms, muscular issues, and general functional can decrease. Fortunately, as an antispasmodic and sedative substance, nightshade has been known to soothe the nervous system and relieve the symptoms from major nervous system disorders and diseases.

Pain Reliever
Whether in topical application or when orally consumed (in small, measured quantities), Atropa belladonna can significantly reduce pain and acts as a powerful analgesic. [6] 
This use of belladonna may be one of the oldest known applications, with the exception of making poison-tipped arrows, of course.
Whether you’ve strained a muscle during an athletic ability or suffer chronic pain somewhere else in the body, belladonna can help.

Headache Relief
When applied to the temples, a bit of the belladonna tincture can quickly alleviate headaches and migraines. [7]
The powerful compounds should be kept away from the eyes and mouth, however, particularly when used in a concentrated form as a topical solution.

Anxiety and Mood
The sedative nature of belladonna does tend to make it quite effective for reducing strain, stress, and anxiety in people suffering from chronic cases. [8]
It can also work to improve mood and alleviate feelings of depression. While this can be a slightly dangerous herbal additive if you are already taking sedatives or anti-depressants, belladonna is connected with releasing certain pleasure hormones, like dopamine, which can induce this feeling of mental peace.

Sleep Aid
Following the previous benefit, it makes sense that Atropa belladonna has also been turned to throughout history to improve quality of sleep. [9]
Using too much may give you the Big sleep, but in appropriate doses, you can remedy insomnia and restlessness problems, which are all too common in today’s fast-paced world.

Hormonal Imbalances
Before and after menstruation and menopause, the hormone levels in a woman’s body can fluctuate dramatically, causing a number of physical and psychological changes. [10] 
Throughout history, Atropa belladonna has been recommended for treating the symptoms of these two feminine issues, particularly hot flashes, cramping, mood swings, and cravings.

Antispasmodic
Some of the antispasmodic benefits were explained earlier, but another important effect of this particular quality of Atropa belladonna is its prevention of muscle spasms,
which protects the entire body, including the heart (irregularities) and the bowels (digestion). [11]

Soothes Allergic Reactions
Studies have shown that Atropa belladonna’s effects on the respiratory system also make it an effective remedy for certain allergic reactions, particularly hay fever. [12] 
By reducing spasms and clearing out the sinuses, deadly nightshade might be just the thing to get rid of those sneezing attacks come spring!

A Final Word of Warning - Throughout this article, there have been a dozen warnings…

• Atropa belladonna is extremely toxic, and under no circumstances should the berries or leaves be used without proper preparation and handling. 
• This plant can cause everything from hallucinations and confusion to insanity and death. 
• While the benefits are clear, those are only possible through careful consultation with a local professional who deals in this delicate and meticulous area of herbal study.

References:
[1] https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/0168165690900349
[2] http://www.pnas.org/content/89/24/11799.short?&utm_medium=42385
[3] http://journals.sagepub.com/doi/abs/10.1191/0960327103ht404oa?utm_medium=42385&
[4] https://akademiai.com/doi/abs/10.1556/JPC.16.2003.1.16?journalCode=1006&utm_medium=42385&
[5] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC160910/?&utm_medium=42385
[6] https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0531513102006994?&utm_medium=42385
[7] https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S1474442202002260?&utm_medium=42385
[8] https://europepmc.org/abstract/med/19123171?&utm_medium=42385
[9] https://link.springer.com/referenceworkentry/10.1007/978-1-4020-6754-9_11419?&utm_medium=42385
[10] http://journals.sagepub.com/doi/abs/10.1258/136218002100321857?utm_medium=42385
[11] https://www.scholarsresearchlibrary.com/articles/solanum-xanthocarpum-yellow-berried-night-shade-a-review.pdf
[12] https://opensiuc.lib.siu.edu/cgi/viewcontent.cgi?referer=&httpsredir=1&article=1300&context=ebl&sei-redir=1&referer=https%3A%2F%2Fscholar.google.co.uk%2Fscholar%3Fq%3Dnightshade%2Bhay%2Bfever%26btnG%3D%26hl%3Den%26as_sdt%3D0%252C5&utm_medium=42385

Natural Remedy for insomnia or How to fall asleep easily

I used to have a problem. If ever I need to sleep badly, I will be anxious about whether I can fall asleep and then I become more anxious and therefore even more difficult to fall asleep.

Want to know a way to easily fall asleep without sleeping pills? Simple. Just tell yourself that if tonight I cannot sleep, it will be easier for me to fall asleep tomorrow for then you will be naturally tired and sleepy. And if tomorrow you still can't sleep, tell yourself that the next day it will be even easier. If it so happen you can't sleep the first day, the second day, the third day and so on, there will come a time that even if you don't want to sleep, you can be sure you will fall asleep whether you like it or not. So with that kind of knowledge that you will be able to sleep eventually, will you then be anxious about it? And if you aren't anxious, then don't you think it should be not a problem to fall asleep?

That my friend is my natural remedy for insomnia. Previously, sometimes it could be difficult for me to fall asleep. Not anymore.

Another tip: Supposed you have a number of problems not solved yet and you do not yet know the solution. You are anxious about something. This kind of situation will make it hard for you to sleep for you will then be anxious. Just imagine you have a bag. Imagine you put all your concerns and worries and put them all into the bag and close it. Tell yourself you will not worry about them for the time being. Tell yourself when you awake or when you are ready, then only open the bag and think about the solutions etc.

Now free of worries and anxiety do you think you would be able to fall asleep very easily? So friends, these 2 are my naturalremedies for insomnia and so far it had been working very well not only for me, but also for my son when he said he don't know if he can sleep one night. I gave him my natural remedy and within minutes, he was asleep.

Fatigue is a problem we all face on a daily basis.

Going to class, sitting in the office, staying awake is a job in itself; here are some tips to stay awake.

1. Not Enough Sleep

It may seem obvious but you could be getting too little sleep. That can negatively affect your concentration and health. Adults should get seven to eight hours every night.

Fix: Make sleep a priority and keep a regular schedule. Ban laptops, cell phones, and PDAs from your bedroom. Still having trouble? Seek help from a doctor. You may have a sleep disorder.

2. Sleep Apnea

Some people think they’re sleeping enough, but sleep apnea gets in the way. It briefly stops your breathing throughout the night. Each interruption wakes you for a moment, but you may not be aware of it. The result: you’re sleep-deprived despite spending eight hours in bed.

Fix: Lose weight if you’re overweight, quit smoking, and sleep with a CPAP device to help keep airway passages open at night.

3. Not Enough Fuel

Eating too little causes fatigue, but eating the wrong foods can also be a problem. Eating a balanced diet helps keep your blood sugar in a normal range and prevents that sluggish feeling when your blood sugar drops.

Fix: Always eat breakfast and try to include protein and complex carbs in every meal. For example, eat eggs with whole-grain toast. Also eat meals and snacks throughout the day for sustained energy.

4. Anemia

Anemia is a leading cause of fatigue in women. Menstrual blood loss can cause an iron deficiency, putting women at risk. Red blood cells (shown here) are needed because they carry oxygen to your tissues and organs.

Fix: For anemia caused by an iron deficiency, taking iron supplements and eating iron-rich foods, such as lean meat, liver, shellfish, beans, and enriched cereal, can help.

5. Depression

You may think of depression as an emotional disorder, but it contributes to many physical symptoms as well. Fatigue, headaches, and loss of appetite are among the most common symptoms. If you feel tired and “down” for more than a couple of weeks, see your doctor.

Fix: Depression responds well to psychotherapy and/or medication.

6. Hypothyroidism

The thyroid is a small gland at the base of your neck. It controls your metabolism, the speed at which your body converts fuel into energy. When the gland is underactive and the metabolism functions too slowly, you may feel sluggish and put on weight.

Fix: If a blood test confirms your thyroid hormones are low, synthetic hormones can bring you up to speed.

7. Caffeine Overload

Caffeine can improve alertness and concentration in moderate doses. But too much can increase heart rate, blood pressure, and jitteriness. And research indicates too much actually causes fatigue in some people.

Fix: Gradually cut back on coffee, tea, chocolate, soft drinks, and any medications that contain caffeine. Stopping suddenly can cause caffeine withdrawal and more fatigue.

8. Hidden UTI

If you’ve ever had a urinary tract infection (UTI), you’re probably familiar with the burning pain and sense of urgency. But the infection does not always announce itself with such obvious symptoms. In some cases, fatigue may be the only sign. A urine test can quickly confirm a UTI.

Fix: Antibiotics are the cure for UTIs, and the fatigue will usually vanish within a week.

9. Diabetes

In people with diabetes, abnormally high levels of sugar remain in the bloodstream instead of entering the body’s cells, where it would be converted into energy. The result is a body that runs out of steam despite having enough to eat. If you have persistent, unexplained fatigue, ask your doctor about being tested for diabetes.

Fix: Treatments for diabetes may include lifestyle changes such as diet and exercise, insulin therapy, and medications to help the body process sugar.

10. Dehydration

Your fatigue can be a sign of dehydration. Whether you’re working out or working a desk job, your body needs water to work well and keep cool. If you’re thirsty, you’re already dehydrated.

Fix: Drink water throughout the day so your urine is light colored. Have at least two cups of water an hour or more before a planned physical activity. Then, sip throughout your workout and afterwards drink another two cups.

11. Heart Disease

When fatigue strikes during everyday activities, such as cleaning the house or weeding the yard, it can be a sign that your heart is no longer up to the job. If you notice it’s becoming increasingly difficult to finish tasks that were once easy, talk to your doctor about heart disease.

Fix: Lifestyle changes, medication, and therapeutic procedures can get heart disease under control and restore your energy.

12. Shift Work Sleep Disorder

Working nights or rotating shifts can disrupt your internal clock. You may feel tired when you need to be awake. And you may have trouble sleeping during the day.

Fix: Limit your exposure to daylight when you need to rest. Make your room dark, quiet, and cool. Still having sleep issues? Talk with your doctor. Supplements and medications may help.

13. Food Allergies

Some doctors believe hidden food allergies can make you sleepy. If your fatigue intensifies after meals, you could have a mild intolerance to something you’re eating -- not enough to cause itching or hives, just enough to make you tired.

Fix: Try eliminating foods one at a time to see if your fatigue improves. You can also ask your doctor about a food allergy test.

14. CFS and Fibromyalgia

If your fatigue lasts more than six months and is so severe that you can’t manage your daily activities, chronic fatigue syndrome or fibromyalgia are a possibility. Both can have various symptoms, but persistent, unexplained exhaustion is a main one.

Fix: While there’s no quick fix for CFS or fibromyalgia, patients often benefit from changing their daily schedule, learning better sleep habits, and starting a gentle exercise program.

Fast Fix for Mild Fatigue

If you have mild fatigue that isn’t linked to any medical condition, the solution may be exercise. Research suggests healthy but tired adults can get a significant energy boost from a modest workout program. In one study, participants rode a stationary bike for 20 minutes at a mild pace. Doing this just three times a week was enough to fight fatigue.t Enough Sleep

It may seem obvious but you could be getting too little sleep. That can negatively affect your concentration and health. Adults should get seven to eight hours every night.

Fix: Make sleep a priority and keep a regular schedule. Ban laptops, cell phones, and PDAs from your bedroom. Still having trouble? Seek help from a doctor. You may have a sleep disorder.

2: Sleep Apnea

Some people think they’re sleeping enough, but sleep apnea gets in the way. It briefly stops your breathing throughout the night. Each interruption wakes you for a moment, but you may not be aware of it. The result: you’re sleep-deprived despite spending eight hours in bed.

Fix: Lose weight if you’re overweight, quit smoking, and sleep with a CPAP device to help keep airway passages open at night.

3: Not Enough Fuel

Eating too little causes fatigue, but eating the wrong foods can also be a problem. Eating a balanced diet helps keep your blood sugar in a normal range and prevents that sluggish feeling when your blood sugar drops.

Fix: Always eat breakfast and try to include protein and complex carbs in every meal. For example, eat eggs with whole-grain toast. Also eat meals and snacks throughout the day for sustained energy.

4: Anemia

Anemia is a leading cause of fatigue in women. Menstrual blood loss can cause an iron deficiency, putting women at risk. Red blood cells (shown here) are needed because they carry oxygen to your tissues and organs.

Fix: For anemia caused by an iron deficiency, taking iron supplements and eating iron-rich foods, such as lean meat, liver, shellfish, beans, and enriched cereal, can help.

5: Depression

You may think of depression as an emotional disorder, but it contributes to many physical symptoms as well. Fatigue, headaches, and loss of appetite are among the most common symptoms. If you feel tired and “down” for more than a couple of weeks, see your doctor.

Fix: Depression responds well to psychotherapy and/or medication.

6: Hypothyroidism

The thyroid is a small gland at the base of your neck. It controls your metabolism, the speed at which your body converts fuel into energy. When the gland is underactive and the metabolism functions too slowly, you may feel sluggish and put on weight.

Fix: If a blood test confirms your thyroid hormones are low, synthetic hormones can bring you up to speed.

7: Caffeine Overload

Caffeine can improve alertness and concentration in moderate doses. But too much can increase heart rate, blood pressure, and jitteriness. And research indicates too much actually causes fatigue in some people.

Fix: Gradually cut back on coffee, tea, chocolate, soft drinks, and any medications that contain caffeine. Stopping suddenly can cause caffeine withdrawal and more fatigue.

8: Hidden UTI

If you’ve ever had a urinary tract infection (UTI), you’re probably familiar with the burning pain and sense of urgency. But the infection does not always announce itself with such obvious symptoms. In some cases, fatigue may be the only sign. A urine test can quickly confirm a UTI.

Fix: Antibiotics are the cure for UTIs, and the fatigue will usually vanish within a week.

9: Diabetes

In people with diabetes, abnormally high levels of sugar remain in the bloodstream instead of entering the body’s cells, where it would be converted into energy. The result is a body that runs out of steam despite having enough to eat. If you have persistent, unexplained fatigue, ask your doctor about being tested for diabetes.

Fix: Treatments for diabetes may include lifestyle changes such as diet and exercise, insulin therapy, and medications to help the body process sugar.

10: Dehydration

Your fatigue can be a sign of dehydration. Whether you’re working out or working a desk job, your body needs water to work well and keep cool. If you’re thirsty, you’re already dehydrated.

Fix: Drink water throughout the day so your urine is light colored. Have at least two cups of water an hour or more before a planned physical activity. Then, sip throughout your workout and afterwards drink another two cups.

11: Heart Disease

When fatigue strikes during everyday activities, such as cleaning the house or weeding the yard, it can be a sign that your heart is no longer up to the job. If you notice it’s becoming increasingly difficult to finish tasks that were once easy, talk to your doctor about heart disease.

Fix: Lifestyle changes, medication, and therapeutic procedures can get heart disease under control and restore your energy.

12: Shift Work Sleep Disorder

Working nights or rotating shifts can disrupt your internal clock. You may feel tired when you need to be awake. And you may have trouble sleeping during the day.

Fix: Limit your exposure to daylight when you need to rest. Make your room dark, quiet, and cool. Still having sleep issues? Talk with your doctor. Supplements and medications may help.

13: Food Allergies

Some doctors believe hidden food allergies can make you sleepy. If your fatigue intensifies after meals, you could have a mild intolerance to something you’re eating -- not enough to cause itching or hives, just enough to make you tired.

Fix: Try eliminating foods one at a time to see if your fatigue improves. You can also ask your doctor about a food allergy test.

14: CFS and Fibromyalgia

If your fatigue lasts more than six months and is so severe that you can’t manage your daily activities, chronic fatigue syndrome or fibromyalgia are a possibility. Both can have various symptoms, but persistent, unexplained exhaustion is a main one.

Fix: While there’s no quick fix for CFS or fibromyalgia, patients often benefit from changing their daily schedule, learning better sleep habits, and starting a gentle exercise program.

Fast Fix for Mild Fatigue

If you have mild fatigue that isn’t linked to any medical condition, the solution may be exercise. Research suggests healthy but tired adults can get a significant energy boost from a modest workout program. In one study, participants rode a stationary bike for 20 minutes at a mild pace. Doing this just three times a week was enough to fight fatigue.