A Review of a Hallucinogenic Plant (Brugmensia) Used as Criminal Tools and Exercises

Abstract

Scopolamine, named also hyoscine, is a tropane alkaloid drug with antimuscarinic effects. It is also a tertiary ammonium compound, so it can be easily absorbed by the gut and the most important thing is that it crosses the hematoencephalic barrier (blood-brain barrier). This substance has many effects on the human body and it is produces effects on a range of micrograms. Scopolamine itself is used as a treatment for some diseases in low doses (like kinetosis), but when it comes to use it as a weapon, it’s mixed up with some other substances to produce the compost called burundanga. Burundanga is the cocktail and scopolamine is the main active principle. Regarding to its physical appearance, burundanga is a white thin dust similar to cocaine, tasteless and odourless. Scopolamine can be find almost in all the species of the Solenaceae family. The drug is stored in the plant’s flowers, leaves, and stems. Scopolamine is obtained principally from Datura stramonium, Brugmansia candida, and Hyoscyamus albus. There are many ways to commit a crime, but the perfect crime is not a concept easily achieved. Scopolamine is the ideal example. This substance has been utilised for a long time by humans and has been considered a gate to extra sensorial experiences with spirits. Nowadays though, it has turned into a majestic crime weapon or tool.