Henbane

Henbane has a reputation as a powerful sedative and anti-spasmodic due to its effect on the parasympathetic nervous system. Nowadays it is mainly used as a source of Hyoscyamine, a compound used in drugs to alleviate motion-sickness and symptoms associated with Parkinson’s disease.

Henbane is a herb that lives in two worlds; the physical and the magical. Its alluring flowers and foetid smell lure one into a complex relationship. Its ability to cause hallucinations and visions was used as a ‘magic flying’ potion by female shamans to propel them to other worlds. We do not recommend using henbane for this purpose; it is a toxic plant that may send you places from which you may not return.

We have had better results growing henbane in our greenhouse than outdoors, but be warned: any pleasant aromas from other plants in the greenhouse will be overwhelmed by the strong smells and otherworldly emanations of this unusual plant.