Black Henbane

Flexible Delivery Methods:

• Tracked Letter: For orders containing only seeds, we ship by tracked letter , allowing you to easily track your order until receipt.

Our goal is to provide you not only with the best quality seeds, but also with a smooth and reassuring shipping experience. If you have any questions about shipping or need help choosing which option is best for you, please do not hesitate to contact us.

Seeds are available all year round.

Botanical Description of Black Henbane

Black henbane, also known by its scientific name Hyoscyamus niger , is a plant that fluctuates between annual and biennial, meaning it can live one or two seasons, depending on environmental conditions. Native to Eurasia, this species belongs to the Solanaceae family, the same family as other notable plants such as tomato, potato, and belladonna. It is distinguished by its hairy leaves and its singular pale yellow flowers, decorated with purple veins, exuding a dark and mystical beauty.

Various Uses

Medicinal Properties: Black Henbane is rich in alkaloids such as hyoscyamine and scopolamine. These compounds have antispasmodic effects, helping to relax smooth muscles, and sedative, calming nervous activity. It is important to note that, although potentially beneficial, these substances should be used with great caution and under professional supervision due to their potency and toxicity.

Phytotherapy: In herbal medicine, extracts of black henbane are sometimes included in formulations aimed at soothing states of nervousness or minor sleep disorders. The use of this plant in preparations for pain management is a legacy of traditional medicine, although its application requires medical expertise due to the associated risks.

Use in the Garden: Beyond its medicinal value, black henbane can add a touch of originality to your garden thanks to its unique flowers. However, its toxic nature requires that it be placed judiciously, away from the reach of children and pets.

Use in Animals: Although certain alkaloids present in Black Henbane have applications in veterinary medicine, their use must be strictly controlled and reserved for professionals in order to avoid any risk of poisoning.

Ornamental and More: Although inedible and primarily used for medicinal or ornamental purposes, Black Henbane illustrates the fascinating duality of nature – both beautiful and dangerous.

SOWING:

• Soil: Use well-drained soil enriched with compost to promote growth.

• Watering: Keep the soil moist but not saturated during germination.

• Sowing Temperature: Ideal around 18-22°C for optimal germination.

• Sowing Period: Sow in spring, after the last frost, or in autumn in warmer regions.

• Flowering Time: Expect to see the first flowers appear in summer, from May to September.

Adult Plant:

• Temperature and Exposure: Black henbane appreciates full sun to partial shade and resists summer heat well.
• Hardiness: Rather robust, it supports temperatures down to -5°C.
• Fruiting: Fruit formation generally occurs 2 to 3 months after flowering.
• Germination Time: Seeds take approximately 2 to 4 weeks to germinate under ideal conditions.

Additional Tips:

• Monitor soil moisture regularly to avoid overwatering.

• Protect seedlings from strong winds and direct sunlight during the early stages of growth.

1. Origin of the Name: The name "Black Jusquiame", or Hyoscyamus niger , comes from the Greek "hyos" meaning pork and "kyamos" for bean, probably because the ancients thought that pigs could eat the plant without suffering its toxic effects.
2. Nickname "Witches' Herb": Black henbane was nicknamed "Witches' Herb" due to its supposed use in witches' ointments for their nocturnal flights, thanks to its hallucinogenic and narcotic properties.
3. Link to Oracles: In ancient Greece, it is believed that Black Henbane was used by the Pythia of Delphi to enter a trance and communicate the oracles of Apollo to seekers of truth.
4. Viking Legends: Historical accounts suggest that Viking warriors, known as Berserkers, consumed Black Henbane to increase their strength and rage in battle, contributing to their reputation for relentless fury.
5. The Ebers Papyrus: This ancient Egyptian medical papyrus, dating from 1500 BC. BC, mentions Black Henbane among other medicinal plants, highlighting its historical importance in healing practices.
6. Symbol of Delirium: In ancient Rome, Pliny the Elder described Black Henbane as causing madness and dizziness, making it a symbol of loss of control and delirium.
7. The Salerno School: In the Middle Ages, the Salerno School of Medicine used a "sooporific sponge" soaked in black henbane juice and other substances to anesthetize patients before surgery.
8. Tropane Alkaloids: The active ingredients of Black Henbane, such as hyoscyamine and scopolamine, have been studied for their influence on the central nervous system, providing insight into its effects both medicinal and toxic.
9. Association with Death: In some cultures, black henbane was used to prepare the dead for their journey to the afterlife, its power to transit between the world of the living and that of spirits giving it a special place in funeral rituals .
10. Role in Literature: The Black Henbane has inspired many writers and poets throughout the centuries, appearing in literary works as a symbol of mystery, danger and the fine line between wisdom and madness.

What is the delivery time for black henbane seeds?
The black henbane seeds will reach you within 2 to 3 days via tracked letter for fast and secure reception.

How do I grow black henbane seeds in my garden?
To grow Black Henbane seeds, sow them in well-drained soil and maintain constant moisture until germination, usually within 2 to 4 weeks.

Are black henbane seeds suitable for all climates?
Black Henbane seeds adapt to a variety of climates, but prefer sunny to part shade areas with good protection from late frost.

What precautions should I take when handling black henbane seeds?
Due to the toxic nature of Black Henbane, wear gloves when handling the seeds and be sure to place them out of reach of children and pets.

Can I use Black Henbane seeds for medicinal purposes?
Although black henbane has medicinal properties, its use must be supervised by a health professional due to its potential potency and toxicity.

Discover Legba's Unique Commitment to Growing Black Henbane Seeds

At Legba, we take a respectful and sustainable approach to growing our precious Black Henbane seeds. Our method is based on maintaining a natural balance between auxiliaries and pests, thus guaranteeing the health and vigor of our plants without resorting to chemical products, even those certified organic. We favor the use of rainwater for irrigation, reducing our ecological footprint and ensuring pure and unaltered growth of each seed.

Legality and Regulation of Black Henbane Seeds in France

It is essential to note that the sale and possession of Black Henbane seeds is legal in France, provided they are intended for ornamental or research uses. However, due to their potentially toxic nature, careful handling is advised and their use for medicinal purposes should be supervised by qualified professionals. We encourage our customers to familiarize themselves with local regulations and follow safety guidelines when growing Black Henbane.

Safety and Precautions

With the safety of our customers our priority, we include detailed instructions for the safe handling and growing of Black Henbane seeds with every order. We remind you of the importance of placing these plants out of the reach of children and pets and strongly recommend wearing gloves when handling seeds and plants.