Commerson's Nightshade
NameCommerson's Nightshade
Scientific NameSolanum commersonii
Common NamesCommerson's Nightshade, Wild Potato
Plant FamilySolanaceae
Natural HabitatNative to South America, particularly Argentina, Uruguay, Paraguay, and Brazil. It commonly grows in grasslands, disturbed areas, and along roadsides, thriving in temperate climates.
Parts Usedwhole_plant
Medicinal Actionsanti-inflammatory,analgesic
Traditional UsesSolanum commersonii is primarily recognized for its tubers, which are a wild relative of the cultivated potato and are consumed after extensive processing (such as boiling and leaching) to remove toxic glycoalkaloids. Direct traditional medicinal uses of the aerial parts are not widely documented due to their high toxicity. However, some Solanum species have been historically used externally for skin conditions or internally as sedatives/analgesics in highly controlled, minute doses, always with extreme caution.
Active Constituentssteroidal glycoalkaloids, solanine, chaconine, commersonine, demissine
Preparation Methodsdecoction,poultice
Contraindications & WarningsEXTREMELY TOXIC due to high concentrations of steroidal glycoalkaloids. This plant is not safe for internal consumption without expert detoxification and guidance. Avoid during pregnancy, lactation, and in children. Individuals with liver or kidney conditions should also avoid use. All parts of the plant, especially unripe fruits and leaves, are considered poisonous.
Cultivation NotesThis plant can be grown from tubers or seeds. It prefers full sun to partial shade and well-drained soil. It is relatively hardy and tolerant of various soil types and conditions, often found thriving in disturbed habitats.
Raritycommon
Description
An herbaceous perennial plant, often sprawling or erect, with green, somewhat lobed leaves. It produces star-shaped flowers, typically light purple or lavender with a prominent yellow cone of anthers, as seen in the image. This species is known to form small tubers underground.
