Homeopathic Database

Belladonna, which is also known as deadly nightshade, is member of the nighshade family and is a botanical cousin to tomatoes, peppers and eggplants. Known botanically as Atropa belladonna, this flowering shrub is now found in warm, wet areas throughout the northern hemisphere.

Belladonna gets its botanical name from the Greek goddess Atropa. She was one of the 3 fates who supposedly determined men’s fate through the weaving of cloth. The “belladonna” part of its name comes from an Italian phrase which means “beautiful lady” and is probably a nod to its historical use as a temporary drug used to dilate women’s pupils to make themselves seem more sexually desirable.

To a homeopath, deadly nightshade is employed in the first stages of any actue illness accompanied by inflammation, fever and flushing.

The Belladonna Physiology

Belladonna people often hear their complexions described as “ruddy”. These souls are full of life and often all that running around gives them a flushed, flustered appearance. Their faces are often in full flush and their skin may radiate its heat in all direction.

One peculiar hallmark of belladonna illnesses is that they are often made better if the sufferer lies on his or her stomach.

The Belladonna Psychology

Belladonna personalities are full of live. Decades ago, homeopaths referred to these souls as “vigorous” and full of vitality. Their eyes are large and sparkling—just like their personalities. Only when they are fevered do they withdraw from the company of others. At all other times, belladonna personalities are very much the life of the party.

Belladonna in Homeopathic Medicine

Belladonna is often the first remedy for any illness accompanied by a high fever and sharp, severe pain or the retention of bodily fluids. Scarlet fever is perhaps the best known illness treated with homeopathic belladonna; today it is more likely used for menstrual pain, migraine headaches and sinus pressure resulting for allergy.