Solanum swartzianum
NameSolanum swartzianum
Scientific NameSolanum swartzianum
Common NamesSwartz's Nightshade, Wild Eggplant
Plant FamilySolanaceae
Natural HabitatNative to tropical and subtropical regions, commonly found in disturbed areas, forest margins, and secondary growth.
Parts Usedleaf,fruit
Medicinal Actionsanti-inflammatory,antimicrobial
Traditional UsesTraditionally, various Solanum species, including those similar to S. swartzianum, have been used topically as poultices for skin inflammations, wounds, and boils. Internal use is generally approached with extreme caution due to potential toxicity.
Active Constituentssteroidal glycoalkaloids, flavonoids, phenolic compounds
Preparation Methodspoultice,decoction,infusion
Contraindications & WarningsAll parts of the plant, especially unripe fruits, contain toxic steroidal glycoalkaloids. Ingestion can cause severe gastrointestinal upset, nausea, vomiting, and neurological symptoms. Not recommended for internal use without expert guidance. Avoid during pregnancy and lactation.
Cultivation NotesThrives in warm, humid climates with well-drained soil and prefers full sun to partial shade. It can be propagated from seeds.
Rarityuncommon
Description
A scrambling shrub or small tree, characterized by ovate to elliptic leaves that are often pubescent. It produces small, star-shaped flowers, typically white to pale yellow, which develop into spherical berries that ripen from green to yellow or orange.
