The toxicity of Datura stramonium (thorn apple) to horses.

The study explores the potential harmful effects of Datura stramonium (thorn apple) on horses when its seeds contaminate food. The researchers found that Datura stramonium created a host of clinical signs in horses such as depression, anorexia, weight loss, and adverse heart and respiration rates, confirming its toxicity.

Research Methodology

• The researchers conducted an experiment involving two horses. The horses were fed meals contaminated by Datura stramonium seeds at a rate of 0.5% by weight.
• After the consumption of the meals, the horses were closely monitored for any changes in their behavior or health.

Findings

• The dietary inclusion of Datura stramonium seeds led to depression in the horses, reducing their overall activity and joyfulness.
• These seeds also caused anorexia, leading the horses to significantly reduce their intake of food or stop eating altogether.
• Over time, the consumption of contaminated meal resulted in substantial weight loss in the horses.
• Abnormal heart and respiration rates were also observed in the horses. This caused their hearts to beat much faster than usual, and their breathing rates increased significantly, indicating a negative physiological response to Datura stramonium.
• The horses developed mydriasis (an abnormal dilation of the pupils), polyuria (excessive urination), and polydipsia (excessive thirst). These symptoms may be indicative of possible kidney or urinary tract issues due to the toxin.
• One noticeable side effect was diarrhoea, which is a common symptom of food poisoning or the ingestion of harmful substances.

Recovery and Conclusion

• Despite the adverse effects of the Datura stramonium seeds, both horses managed to recover with appropriate treatment.
• The researchers traced back the source of seeds and learned that maize screenings contaminated by Datura stramonium seeds were used to manufacture the meals – raising concern about the quality control of horse meals and the need for strict supervision to avoid such incidents.
• The findings substantiated that Datura stramonium is indeed toxic to horses, causing multiple health issues when ingested even in small quantities.