| Abstract: |
Datura stramonium L. (Solanaceae), commonly called thorn apple or Jimson weed, is a widely distributed weed with a long history of use in folk and traditional medicine systems across Asia and Africa. Qualitative phytochemical screening of its leaf extracts has consistently revealed the presence of alkaloids, glycosides, terpenoids, steroids, flavonoids, tannins, and saponins [9], [11]. Among its constituents, tropane alkaloids such as atropine, scopolamine, and hyoscyamine dominate the pharmacological profile of the plant [3], [10]. A growing body of experimental work has examined whether these compounds, individually or as crude extracts, disturb reproductive physiology sufficiently to be classified as antifertility agents. Studies on petroleum ether, ethanolic, and aqueous leaf extracts administered to female albino rats have reported prolongation of the estrous cycle along with antiestrogenic activity, changes consistent with antifertility potential without acute toxicity at the tested doses [1]. This review consolidates findings from primary research articles, review papers, and toxicological reports published over the past two decades, examining extraction methods, phytochemical constituents, dose-dependent reproductive outcomes, and proposed mechanisms of action. The review also situates D. stramonium within the broader landscape of plant-derived antifertility agents, comparing its profile with species such as Datura metel, Azadirachta indica, and other Solanaceae members. Gaps identified include inconsistent extraction protocols, near-total absence of isolated-compound studies, lack of dose-response standardization, and no human trial data. The review concludes that while preliminary evidence supports antifertility activity linked to hormonal disruption and possible anticholinergic interference with reproductive tissue, the narrow margin between therapeutic and toxic doses of tropane alkaloids demands considerably more rigorous, standardized investigation bef |
