Valentine Horsenettle
NameValentine Horsenettle
Scientific NameSolanum carolinense
Common NamesValentine Horsenettle, Carolina Horsenettle, Ball-nettle, Radical Weed
Plant FamilySolanaceae
Natural HabitatNative to North America, commonly found in disturbed areas, fields, pastures, roadsides, and open woodlands. It tolerates a wide range of soil conditions and is often considered a weed.
Parts Usedfruit,root
Medicinal Actionssedative,analgesic
Traditional UsesHistorically, some Native American tribes used the berries as a sedative for nervous conditions and epilepsy, and the root was sometimes applied externally as a poultice for toothaches or internally in very small, highly diluted doses for pain. Due to its high toxicity, internal use is extremely dangerous and strongly discouraged.
Active ConstituentsSolanine, Solanidine, Solasodine
Preparation Methodsdecoction,poultice,powder
Contraindications & WarningsALL parts of the plant are highly toxic, especially the unripe berries, due to solanine content. Ingestion can cause severe gastrointestinal distress (nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain), headache, dizziness, and in severe cases, paralysis, respiratory depression, and death. Avoid use by pregnant or nursing women, children, and individuals with liver or kidney conditions. This plant should not be ingested or used internally under any circumstances.
Cultivation NotesConsidered a noxious weed in many regions, it is generally not cultivated. It spreads aggressively by seeds and rhizomes, thriving in full sun and disturbed soils, making it difficult to eradicate.
Raritycommon
Description
A perennial herbaceous plant growing up to 1 meter tall, characterized by prickly stems and lobed, spiny leaves. It produces white to pale violet, star-shaped flowers with prominent yellow anthers, followed by small, yellow-orange berries. All parts of the plant are toxic.
