Deadly nightshade is one of the most toxic plants in the Eastern Hemisphere. While the roots are the most deadly part, the poisonous alkaloids run through the entirety of the plant. Scopolamine and hyoscyamine are among these toxins, both of which cause delirium and hallucinations.

Why is nightshade poisonous?

Steroidal alkaloids such as solanine have atropine-like effects on the nervous system inhibiting the enzyme acetylcholinesterase. Some nightshades also contain irritants such as saponins that cause salivation and diarrhea. Nightshades may also accumulate toxic levels of nitrate. ... Excess salivation, colic, diarrhea.

What happens if you eat deadly nightshade?

But, the LEAVES or BERRIES are UNSAFE, and are very poisonous. Symptoms of poisoning include: scratchy throat, headache, dizziness, enlarged eye pupils, trouble speaking, low body temperature, vomiting, diarrhea, bleeding in the stomach or intestines, convulsions, slowed blood circulation and breathing, and even death.