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| Datura Stramonium - Jimson Weed |
Today finds us diving into the "seedy" side of Hunter Thompson's writing references. And to start, we have to look to the Jimson Weed. Known in some circles as the Devil's Trumpet or the softer version...Angels Trumpet.
Either way, the slightest amount above medicinal dose and depending on your religion, you will be seeing one or the other.
Datura Stramonium is a member of the nightshade family and possesses belladonna alkaloids atropine and scopolamine. This has been used to treat asthma and as a pain killer in early surgery. However, it is also a hallucinogen and deliriant that produces intense visions that may last for days.
This of course is what Hunter is relying on whenever he mentions using a "bit of the jimsonweed". He even referred to using it on his wedding night in 2003 at the age of 65. True or not it is hard to figure. But several of his papers reference the use. Curiously he almost never uses the word marijuana in his writing.
It is really unknown if he ever really smoked the jimmy weed or if he did, was there any productive writing?
But Jimson Weed is just the tip of the iceberg for the Gonzo journalist of our age. Saturday will enlighten you a wee bit more.
Until then, stay upright.
~Tempest Fugit~
