What are the toxic components of Atropa belladonna?
The primary toxic constituents of Atropa belladonna are tropane alkaloids, including atropine, scopolamine, and hyoscyamine. These alkaloids are found in all parts of the plant, with the highest concentrations typically in the roots and berries. These compounds exert anticholinergic effects by competitively inhibiting the neurotransmitter acetylcholine at muscarinic receptors, disrupting normal parasympathetic nervous system function.
