Angel’s Trumpet: What You Need to Know

If you’ve heard the name Angel’s Trumpet and wonder whether it’s a medicine, a party trick or just another poisonous plant, you’re not alone. It belongs to the Datura family, grows as a tall shrub with big white flowers and glossy leaves, and contains powerful alkaloids that can knock you out or kill you if misused. Below we break down why people are attracted to it, how to recognize it in your garden, and what Canadian law says about owning or using it.

Why People Use It

Some folks chase the intense visual hallucinations that Angel’s Trumpet can produce. The plant’s chemicals—mainly scopolamine, hyoscyamine and atropine—block certain brain receptors, leading to altered perception, loss of coordination and sometimes a feeling of weightlessness. In traditional medicine, tiny doses have been used for pain relief or as a muscle relaxant, but the margin between “effective” and “dangerous” is razor thin.

Because the effects last 12‑24 hours and can be unpredictable, many users treat it like a risky shortcut to a psychedelic trip. The high cost of regulated psychedelics pushes some people toward wild plants, despite the lack of dosage guidelines or quality control. If you’re curious, remember that even a single flower can contain enough toxin to cause severe poisoning.

Safety Tips & Legal Info

First, learn how to spot Angel’s Trumpet: tall stems (up to 3 m), trumpet‑shaped white or pale yellow flowers, and large seed pods that split open when mature. The leaves are dark green, ovate and have a distinct smell if you crush them.

Never ingest any part of the plant without professional supervision. If you suspect accidental exposure—tingling mouth, dilated pupils, confusion—call emergency services right away. Keep children and pets away; even a small bite can be fatal.

In Canada, Angel’s Trumpet is not listed as a controlled substance, but its possession for the purpose of extracting psychoactive compounds can be considered illegal under the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act. Law enforcement may treat it like other dangerous plants if used recreationally. The safest route is to avoid cultivation unless you’re a researcher with proper permits.

For those who already have the plant, store it out of reach, label it clearly, and dispose of any waste in a sealed bag. If you need help identifying a suspected Angel’s Trumpet or want advice on safe handling, talk to a local pharmacist or poison control centre—they can give practical guidance without judgment.

Bottom line: Angel’s Trumpet is fascinating but unforgiving. Respect its power, stay informed about the legal landscape, and never take a guess with dosage. When in doubt, skip it altogether and look for safer alternatives that won’t put your health or freedom at risk.