10 Possible Side Effects Of Mandragora Officinarum (Mandrake)

Mandragora officinarum has some side effects when used improperly, such as nausea, vomiting, and dizziness.

These symptoms may be caused by ingesting excessive amounts of the herb, or using it with other medications that interact with its active compounds.

In severe cases, the side effects can worsen to life-threatening situations, such as organ failure or respiratory depression, leading to hospitalization and even disability.

This article explains in details the 10 most common side effects of Mandragora officinarum if used imporperly.

1. Provokes respiratory failure

Mandragora officinarum causes hallucinations due to its active alkaloids, including scopolamine and atropine.

These chemicals bind to receptors in the brain, altering perception, thought, and behavior. As a result, users may experience vivid visual and auditory hallucinations, distorted senses of time and space, and altered states of consciousness.

The plant's potent psychoactive effects can also lead to feelings of euphoria, anxiety, and disorientation, depending on the individual and their dosage.

2. Provokes respiratory failure

Mandragora officinarum triggers seizures due to its ability to affect the brain's neurotransmitters, such as serotonin and dopamine.

The plant contains alkaloids like scopolamine and atropine, which can cause a disruption in the normal functioning of these chemicals, leading to convulsions and seizures.

This is especially concerning for individuals with a history of epilepsy or other seizure disorders, as even small amounts of the plant may induce a severe reaction.

3. Provokes respiratory failure

Mandragora officinarum induces vomiting due to its potent alkaloid properties.

The plant contains a variety of compounds that can stimulate the stomach and intestines, leading to nausea and vomiting.

Additionally, the plant's volatile oils can cause irritation in the digestive tract, further exacerbating this side effect.

4. Provokes respiratory failure

Mandragora officinarum provokes anxiety attacks due to its unique alkaloid composition.

The presence of scopolamine and atropine in the plant can cause an imbalance in the body's neurotransmitters, leading to feelings of panic, fear, and unease.

This disruption in the nervous system can result in a heightened sense of tension and apprehension, manifesting as anxiety attacks in some individuals who use Mandragora officinarum.

5. Provokes respiratory failure

Mandragora officinarum stimulates fever.

This is due to its ability to induce a rapid increase in body temperature, often accompanied by sweating and increased heart rate. The saponins present in Mandragora officinarum are believed to be responsible for this effect, which may occur in individuals who ingest the plant or apply it topically.

As the body's thermoregulatory mechanisms respond to the presence of these compounds, a rise in temperature occurs, potentially leading to symptoms such as chills, headache, and fatigue.

6. Provokes respiratory failure

Mandragora officinarum produces numbness due to its ability to interact with the central nervous system.

The plant's active compounds, such as alkaloids and glycosides, can bind to neurotransmitters, disrupting normal communication between nerve cells.

This can lead to a range of effects, including numbness or tingling sensations in various parts of the body, often accompanied by dizziness or lightheadedness.

7. Provokes respiratory failure

Mandragora officinarum increases blood pressure due to its stimulating properties.

The plant contains alkaloids and glycosides that can cause a rise in blood pressure by stimulating the heart rate and constricting blood vessels.

This is particularly concerning for individuals with pre-existing hypertension or cardiovascular conditions.

8. Provokes respiratory failure

Mandragora officinarum triggers psychosis due to its unique combination of alkaloids and glycosides.

The most significant culprit is the presence of scopolamine, a powerful deliriant that can alter perception, thought, and behavior. Additionally, the plant contains atropine, another potent alkaloid that can cause hallucinations and disorientation.

When consumed or used in excessive quantities, Mandragora officinarum's psychoactive compounds can disrupt normal brain function, leading to episodes of psychosis.

9. Provokes respiratory failure

Mandragora officinarum causes tremors due to its unique chemical composition.

The plant contains alkaloids, such as scopolamine and hyoscyamine, which are known to interact with the nervous system. These compounds can affect the brain's motor control centers, leading to involuntary muscle movements, including tremors.

As a result, individuals using Mandragora officinarum may experience trembling or shaking of their hands, fingers, or even entire body.

10. Provokes respiratory failure

Mandragora officinarum disrupts sleep patterns due to its alkaloid composition, particularly in the presence of scopolamine and atropine.

These compounds can interfere with the body's natural sleep-wake cycle by stimulating the nervous system and leading to increased alertness and restlessness.

As a result, users may experience difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep throughout the night, potentially affecting their overall quality of life.