Solanum nigrum
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Scientific Classification ·
Kingdom: Plantae ·
Clade: Tracheophytes ·
Clade: Angiosperms ·
Order: Solanales ·
Family: Solanaceae ·
Genus: Solanum ·
Species: Solanum nigrum ·
Binomial Name: Solanum nigrum L. Synonyms ·
Solanum decipiens Durieu & Noe ·
Solanum nigrum var. villosum L. ·
Solanum nigrum var. virginicum L. Common Name: Black-nightshade,
wonder berry Local Names: Efo
odu ,Gautan kadii Species ID: NMP-164;wfo-0001029814;NCBI_Taxonomy ID: 4112 Description Solanum nigrum, commonly known as black nightshade, is an
herbaceous plant or short-lived perennial shrub that can reach heights of 30 to
120 cm. The leaves are ovate to heart-shaped, with wavy or toothed edges, and
can be either hairy or smooth. The plant produces small, white flowers with
prominent yellow anthers, and its berries are typically dull black or
purple-black when ripe, though red-berried varieties exist in some regions. The
berries grow in clusters and are often confused with the more toxic Atropa
belladonna, which has solitary berries. Distribution and Habitat Solanum nigrum is native to Eurasia but is now widely
distributed in temperate and tropical regions across Europe, Asia, Africa, and
the Americas. It thrives in various habitats, including disturbed soils,
roadsides, gardens, and agricultural fields. The plant prefers soils rich in
organic matter and grows well in pH ranges between 5.5 and 6.5. Medicinal Properties Traditionally, Solanum nigrum has been used in various cultures
to treat a range of ailments. Its medicinal properties include
anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antibacterial, antitumor, and neuroprotective
activities. The plant contains bioactive compounds such as steroidal saponins,
alkaloids, phenols, and polysaccharides. It has been employed in the treatment
of conditions like cancer, acute nephritis, urethritis, sore throat,
dermatitis, and eczema. In Ayurvedic medicine, it is used to balance the three
doshas and treat skin diseases, respiratory issues, and digestive disorders. Known Toxicity Solanum nigrum contains solanine, a glycoalkaloid that can be
toxic if ingested in large quantities, especially in unripe berries and leaves.
Symptoms of solanine poisoning include fever, sweating, vomiting, abdominal
pain, diarrhea, confusion, and drowsiness. In severe cases, it can lead to
cardiac arrhythmias and respiratory failure. Despite its toxicity, the plant
parts are consumed in some cultures after proper cooking to reduce solanine
levels. Additional Information Solanum nigrum is a highly variable species with many
recognized subspecies and varieties. It is an important plant in traditional
medicine and is also used as a food source in some regions after careful
preparation. Its berries and leaves are used in soups, stews, and herbal
remedies.
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