**Question:** Earliest feature of dhatura poisoning -

A. Nausea
B. Vomiting
C. Diaphoresis
D. Delirium

**Core Concept:**
Dhatura (also spelled as Datura) is a toxic plant belonging to the Solanaceae family. Its alkaloid content, particularly atropine and scopolamine, can cause severe poisoning when ingested. These alkaloids act on the central and peripheral nervous systems, leading to a range of symptoms and signs.

**Why the Correct Answer is Right:**
The correct answer, D. Delirium, represents the earliest feature of dhatura poisoning. Dhatura poisoning can lead to a condition known as "madness of the gods," which is characterized by hallucinations, confusion, agitation, and delirium. In the initial stages, the poison affects the central nervous system, resulting in neurological symptoms such as confusion, delirium, and hallucinations. These symptoms occur due to the action of atropine and scopolamine, the primary active alkaloids in Dhatura.

**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect:**
A. Nausea and vomiting (Option A) occur later in the course of dhatura poisoning and are not the earliest symptoms. Nausea and vomiting are more likely to develop as the poison affects the gastrointestinal tract and autonomic nervous system.

B. Diaphoresis (Option B) is a later sign of dhatura poisoning and may occur as a result of the parasympathetic stimulation caused by the alkaloids.

C. Delirium (Option D) is the earliest feature of dhatura poisoning, as mentioned above. However, it is essential to understand that the plant poisoning progresses to cause additional symptoms, such as:

1. Cardiovascular symptoms: Tachycardia, hypertension, and vasodilation, which can lead to confusion and delirium.
2. Respiratory symptoms: Bronchoconstriction, increased secretions, and respiratory depression.
3. Gastrointestinal symptoms: Nausea, vomiting, diaphoresis, and gastrointestinal motility disturbances.
4. CNS symptoms: Hallucinations, seizures, and coma.

**Clinical Pearl:**
Dhatura poisoning is a severe and potentially life-threatening condition that requires immediate medical attention. It is essential to recognize the early symptoms, such as delirium, to initiate appropriate treatment and prevent progression of the poisoning. Dhatura poisoning typically presents as a toxicosis, involving various organ systems.