|
WARNING(S):
All parts of this plant are poisonous. See Notes.
Family:
Solanaceae
Also called:
Bittersweet
Description:
Climbing vine with woody stem. Leaves can be ovaloid or three-lobed. Lobed leaves are very distinctive and have deep sinuses. Flower petals are purple, curly, and star-shaped with yellow stamens at center. Flowers present May through October. Fruits are berry-like and orange to red in color. Fruits present September through November.
Location:
Found in disturbed areas and waste places. Invasive alien ranging from Southern Canada through Florida and westward.
Uses and Parts Used:
All parts of Woody Nightshade may be used as a steroid base.
Leaves:
used externally as folk remedy for warts and tumors.
Fruits:
Contain narcotic properties of use in treating whooping cough, rheumatism, gout, bronchitis, and skin eruptions.
Stems:
Approved in Germany for treatment of eczema, acne, and warts.
Notes:
Stems have lower amounts of toxic alkaloids but all parts are toxic. All parts can cause vomiting, convulsions, vertigo, and paralysis. However, anticancer compounds have been found in Woody Nightshade.
|
