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Chemistry / Re: What medications could you isolate from plants in your backyard?
« on: 14/08/2016 03:11:25 »I would NOT recommend trying to isolate any significant quantity of atropine! (or any of the other alkaloids in datura stromnium)
If you do try to isolate atropine from jimson weed, just be VERY careful. While it is used as medicine, it is also highly toxic (lethal) to those who don't need it, or at doses higher than prescribed. Toxic effects can begin to manifest as low as 33 µg/kg (2.5 mg for a 75 kg person), and can be fatal at significantly higher dosages. You will need gloves and a jacket and eye protection (it can be absorbed through your skin, and some of the compounds required for purification aren't so friendly either.)
Never fear. I wouldn't dream of attempting something like this without the proper safety equipment. I have no desire to earn myself a Darwin award.