Question

The image of the plant given below is of ___(A)______and is a well-known plant with___(B)_____.

Answer 1

The image of the plant given in the question is identified as Datura. Datura produces large, erect, trumpet-shaped flowers which are pure white to pinkish purple in colour.

This is a well-known plant with hallucinogenic compounds which alter the sensory perception. When taken, the individual experiences visual, auditory or tactile (touch) sensations which do not exist. This state of perceiving non-existent sensory inputs are called hallucinations. Substances that cause such hallucinations are called hallucinogens.



Papaver somniferum is commonly called opium poppy. It produces alkaloids like morphine which have sedative properties. Sedatives induce sleep.

Erythroxylum coca produces coca alkaloids or cocaine. When taken in excess doses, cocaine causes hallucinations.