HENBANE: A genus of the monogynia order, belonging to the pentandria clas of plants; and in the natural method ranking under the 28th order, Luride. The corolla is funnel-shaped and obtuse; the flamina inclining to one side; the capsule covered and bilocular. There are several species, one of which, viz. the niger, or common henbane, is a native of Britain. It grows on road-sides, and among rubbish. It is a biennial plant, with long fleshy roots which strike deep into the ground, sending out several large soft leaves, deeply slashed on their edges; the following spring the stalks come up, which are about two feet high, garnished with flowers standing on one side in a double row, sitting close to the stalks alternately. They are of a dark purplish colour, with a black bottom; and are succeeded by roundish capsules which open with a lid at the top, and have two cells filled with small irregular seeds.—The seeds, leaves, and roots of this plant, as well as of all other species of this genus, are poisonous: and many well attested instances of their bad effects are recorded; madness, convulsions, and death, being the common consequence. In a smaller dose, they occasion giddiness and stupor. It is said that the leaves scattered about a house will drive away mice.—The juice of the plant evaporated or an extract is prescribed in some cases as a narcotic; in which respect undoubtedly it may be a powerful medicine if properly managed. The dose is from half a scruple to half a dram. The roots are used for anodyne necklaces.—Goats are not fond of the plant; horses, cows, sheep, and swine, refuse it.