Tomogen, also known as Hyoscyamus niger root, possesses antimalarial, detoxifying, and insecticidal properties. It is typically burned to preserve its medicinal essence, then powdered for internal use or pounded for external application. Hyoscyamus niger root, derived from the Solanaceae plant Hyoscyamus niger, is bitter in taste, cold in nature, and toxic. It is mainly used to treat malaria and scabies.
The appearance of Hyoscyamus niger root resembles carrots, often growing mixed in carrot fields, leading to accidental ingestion and poisoning. Clinical manifestations primarily involve psychiatric symptoms, including facial flushing, dilated pupils, unstable gait, balance disorders, and unconsciousness. Burning Hyoscyamus niger root to ash, grinding it, and consuming it with water, in amounts adjusted to individual age and constitution, can treat malaria.
Pounding Hyoscyamus niger root with honey for external application can treat scabies. Mixing Hyoscyamus niger root with salt, pounding it, and applying it externally three times a day can treat rabies bites. Crushing Hyoscyamus niger root into juice and applying it can treat corns between toes.
It is noteworthy that excessive consumption of Hyoscyamus niger root can cause manic behavior. Therefore, it is contraindicated for patients with heart disease and heart failure. Additionally, those allergic to Hyoscyamus niger root or with allergic constitutions should use it cautiously to avoid potential allergic reactions. Hyoscyamus niger root is a traditional Chinese medicine, and it is recommended to use it under the guidance of a doctor rather than self-medicating.
