Deadly Nightshade (Atropa belladonna)

Family: Solanaceae

The sap, leaves and berries are the main sources of intoxication. The berries are attractive to children as they are sweet.

Toxic compounds are solanaceous alkaloids:

(1) atropine

(2) scopolamine

(3) hyoscyamine

Ingestion can result in anticholinergic symptoms and the Anticholinergic Toxic Syndrome (ATS):

(1) dilated pupils (mydriasis) with poor reaction to light

(2) meaningless speech, delirium and/or agitation

(3) tachycardia

(4) flushing

(5) lethargy

(6) encephalopathy, convulsions and/or coma in severe cases