The poisonberry plant belongs to the Solanaceae family, the same family as the potato, and both plants contain the same active component: solanine in their leaves and fruit.
This plant is native to the Americas, where ancient natives called it chichiquelite and used it in popular medicine. The Spanish conquerors introduced it to Europe, where it quickly spread.
Poisonberry Scientific Facts
- Scientific name: Solanum nigrum L.
- Other names: Deadly nightshade, garden nightshade.
- French: Herbe maure.
- Spanish: Hierbe mora.
- Environment: Common in warm areas of Europe and America, it grows in woods, by walls, and also in unfarmed lands.
- Description: The plant of the Solanaceae family grows from 10 to 30 cm high. The dark green leaves have irregular edges. The flowers are white, and the fruits are blackberries.
- Parts of the plant used medicinally: The leaves and the stem.
Solanum Nigrum Benefits
The green parts of this plant contain a glycoalkaloid: solanine, whose concentration increases with the average temperature of the climate in which the poisonberry grows. Solanine acts powerfully on the nervous system, provoking muscular relaxation, analgesia, and narcosis. It has antispasmodic, analgesic, and sudorific properties when taken internally, but the plant is currently only used externally because of its effects on the nervous system.
On the skin, poisonberry acts as a sedative and emollient substance. It is applied as lotions, compresses, or poultices, to alleviate pruritus (itching) on the vagina or the anus and to sedate the skin itching from scabies, ringworm, herpes, or any other type of rashes.
WARNING! The berries, sweet in taste, are poisonous, though they are not deadly.
Frequently Asked Question
What are the anti-inflammatory properties of the poisonberry plant?
Solanum nigrum contains compounds such as glycoalkaloids and flavonoids that have been shown to possess anti-inflammatory properties. These compounds can help reduce inflammation, potentially benefiting conditions like arthritis and other inflammatory diseases.
How does the poisonberry plant contribute to liver health?
Studies suggest that Solanum nigrum can protect the liver against damage from toxins and diseases. Its antioxidant properties assist in reducing oxidative stress, which is beneficial in treating liver disorders and promoting liver health.
Can the poisonberry plant be used in cancer treatment?
Research indicates that the glycoalkaloids in Solanum nigrum, particularly solanine and solasonine, may have anti-cancer properties. They can induce apoptosis (programmed cell death) in cancer cells and inhibit tumor growth in certain types of cancer.
What role does the poisonberry plant play in managing diabetes?
Solanum nigrum has been shown to have hypoglycemic effects, potentially beneficial for managing diabetes. Its ability to regulate blood sugar levels helps prevent and manage type 2 diabetes.
How does this plant affect digestive health?
Solanum nigrum is traditionally used to treat gastrointestinal issues, including ulcers, diarrhea, and digestive discomfort. Its anti-inflammatory and soothing properties help to improve digestive health.
What are the antioxidant benefits?
The plant contains antioxidants such as flavonoids, phenolic compounds, and vitamin C. These antioxidants help neutralize harmful free radicals in the body, lower oxidative stress, and theoretically lower the risk of chronic diseases.
Can this plant improve skin health?
Due to its anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, Solanum nigrum can treat skin conditions such as acne, eczema, and psoriasis. It helps soothe the skin and lower inflammation.
Is poisonberry effective in treating respiratory conditions?
Solanum nigrum has been used traditionally to treat respiratory illnesses such as asthma, cough, and bronchitis. Its expectorant properties help clear mucus from the airways, facilitating easier breathing.
How does the poisonberry plant impact cardiovascular health?
The plant’s compounds can contribute to cardiovascular health by lowering blood pressure and cholesterol levels. Its anti-inflammatory and antioxidative properties also help in preventing heart disease.
Are there any neuroprotective effects?
Preliminary studies suggest that Solanum nigrum might have neuroprotective effects, potentially benefiting conditions like Alzheimer’s. Its antioxidant properties can help in preventing neurodegeneration and improving cognitive function.
DISCLAIMER: All content on this website is presented solely for educational and informational objectives. It would be best to not rely on the information provided as a replacement for advice, diagnosis, or treatment from a qualified medical expert. If you are pregnant, nursing, or have any preexisting medical concerns, you should talk to your doctor before using any herbal or natural medicines.
How to use poisonberry
- Lotions with the fresh juices of the leaves and stems.
- Compresses soaked in the fresh juice.
- Poultices with the leaves mashed.
REFERENCES
- George D. Pamplona-Roger, M.D. “Encyclopedia of Medicinal Plants.” George D. Pamplona-Roger, M.D. Encyclopedia of Medicinal Plants. Ed. Francesc X. Gelabert. vols. 2 San Fernando de Henares: Editorial Safeliz, 2000. 729. Print. [poisonberry plant]
- Wikipedia’s page on Solanum nigrum: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Solanum_nigrum
- Kew Science’s Plants of the World Online, for botanical information: http://www.plantsoftheworldonline.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:821953-1
- National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI) for scientific studies: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/