Evidence supporting the use of: Belladonna
For the health condition: Afterbirth Pain

Links: Go back one page, Tool main page, Ingredients list, Health conditions list, Body systems list

Synopsis

Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 2

Belladonna (Atropa belladonna), also known as deadly nightshade, has a long history of use in traditional European herbal medicine. It contains active alkaloids such as atropine, scopolamine, and hyoscyamine, which have anticholinergic and antispasmodic effects. Historically, belladonna preparations were used by midwives and herbalists to help relieve various types of pain, including afterbirth (postpartum) pain, which is caused by uterine contractions as the uterus returns to its normal size after delivery. The rationale behind its use was primarily its muscle-relaxant and analgesic effects, which could theoretically reduce cramping and discomfort. However, there is little to no modern scientific evidence supporting the effectiveness or safety of belladonna for afterbirth pain. Its use is largely rooted in tradition and historical practice rather than validated by clinical trials or contemporary obstetric guidelines. Additionally, belladonna is a potentially toxic plant with a narrow therapeutic window, and its use can lead to serious side effects or poisoning if not carefully controlled. In modern medicine, safer and more effective options are available for postpartum pain management. Thus, while belladonna's use for afterbirth pain is justified by tradition, it is not supported by substantial scientific evidence.

More about Belladonna
More about Afterbirth Pain

Products containing Belladonna

We currently have no products on Vitabase that contain this ingredient.