Solanum Nigrum
Black Night Shade / Solanum Nigrum Extract
- Botanical Name : Solanum Nigrum
- Family Name : Solanaceae
- Common Name : Black Night Shade, Makoy, Deadly Nightshade
- Part Used : Fruits, Whole Plant
- Habitat : Grows as a weed all over dry parts of india
- Product offered : Seeds, Wholeplant, Fruits
The alkaloid content of Solanum Nigrum root can vary, this variation is between 0.4 and 0.6%, however, up to 1% of the volume of all fluids in the root can be only alkaloids - this consists of the compound hyoscyamine and its isomer atropine at about 0.1 to 0.6%; the compound belladonnine and at in some instances the compound atropamine, other compounds such as flavonoids and coumarins are also seen.
The total proportion of alkaloids that can be found in the dried leaves can vary by 0.3 to 0.7% from the alkaloid content of green leaves.
There is a note stating that leaves used to make remedies must not contain less than 0.3% of the useful alkaloids and the roots should not have an alkaloid content which is lesser than 0.45% of the total volume.
The Solanum Nigrum bears dark green leaves and each individual leaf is about three to ten inches in length from base to tip. The Solanum Nigrum also gives off distinct bell shaped flowers which are dark purple in color. The Solanum Nigrum gives out a strong odor when it is crushed or bruised. The Solanum Nigrum is an extremely poisonous plant and all parts of the plant contain this poison.
Taken internally in very small amounts, the leaves strongly promote perspiration and purge the bowels the next day. The juice of the fresh herb is sometimes used for fever and to allay pain. Externally, the juice or an ointment prepared from the leaves can be used for skin problems and tumors.
The fruit is used as a cosmetic; rubbing the seeds on the cheeks to remove freckles. Children harmlessly and extensively eat the mature fruit. The fruit has been used for diabetes. Decoction of stalk, leaves, roots are good for wounds and cancerous sores. An infusion of the plant is used as an enema in infants having abdominal upsets. Freshly prepared extract of the plant is effective in the treatment of cirrhosis of the liver.
