red nightshade
Namered nightshade
Scientific NameSolanum dulcamara
Common NamesBittersweet Nightshade, Climbing Nightshade, Woody Nightshade, Fever Twig
Plant FamilySolanaceae
Natural HabitatCommonly found in damp, disturbed areas such as woodlands, hedgerows, riverbanks, fencerows, and waste ground. It thrives in full sun to partial shade and is native to Europe and Asia, but widely naturalized in North America.
Parts Usedleaf,fruit
Medicinal Actionsanalgesic,anti-inflammatory,diuretic
Traditional UsesHistorically, the leaves and stems were used externally in poultices or washes for skin conditions like eczema, warts, and fungal infections, and for rheumatic pain due to their purported analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties. Internally, with extreme caution due to toxicity, it was used as a diuretic and alterative for chronic skin diseases, rheumatism, and gout. The berries are highly poisonous and were rarely, if ever, used internally in traditional medicine.
Active ConstituentsSolanine, solasodine, dulcamarine, soladulcidine, saponins
Preparation Methodsinfusion,decoction,poultice
Contraindications & WarningsALL PARTS OF Solanum dulcamara ARE POISONOUS, ESPECIALLY THE UNRIPE BERRIES. Ingestion can cause severe gastrointestinal upset, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, dizziness, convulsions, and can be fatal. It should NEVER be used internally without strict medical supervision, and even then, its use is highly discouraged due to its toxicity. Avoid use by pregnant or breastfeeding women, children, and individuals with liver or kidney conditions. External use should be approached with extreme caution and under expert guidance, as skin irritation can occur.
Cultivation NotesBittersweet Nightshade is a hardy and adaptable plant that can grow in a wide range of soil types, preferring moist, well-drained conditions. It is often considered a weed due to its vigorous growth and ability to colonize disturbed areas. It can be propagated from seeds or stem cuttings and is generally low-maintenance, though it can become invasive.
Raritycommon
Description
A perennial, scrambling vine or shrub, Bittersweet Nightshade produces clusters of small, star-shaped purple flowers with prominent yellow anthers. These flowers are followed by oval berries that ripen from green to yellow, then to a vibrant, glossy red.
