Ethnobotany, phytochemistry, pharmacology, and toxicology of the genus <i>Datura</i> (Solanaceae)

<i>Datura</i> (Solanaceae), a traditional Chinese medicine, has been used to treat arthralgia, asthma, cough, gastrointestinal cramps, neuropathic migraine, and injuries from falls. More than 432 bioactive constituents were isolated and identified from different species of <i>Datura</i>, including steroids, alkaloids, flavonoids, terpenoids, ­phenolics, and aliphatics compounds. Pharmacological studies demonstrated that <i>Datura</i> extracts and the compounds showed anti-inflammatory, analgesic, antibacterial, antioxidant, anti-cancer, cell protection, and insect-repellent activities. However, many studies were mainly based on extracts, the bioactive ingredients, and the mechanisms for their folk application; other ingredients have not been well identified, and there is also a gap in research regarding their clinical effects and safety. Thus, more detailed studies on the mechanisms and additional clinical studies on the extract and compounds from <i>Datura</i> are needed to ensure the safety and effectiveness of the plant for further use. In this review, we collate the current information on <i>Datura</i>, including its ethnobotanical uses, phytochemistry, known biological activities, and toxicological properties, to understand their current situation and provide a scientific basis for their further use.