Apple of Sodom
Solanum aculeastrum
Solanum aculeastrum, a plant native to certain regions, has not been traditionally used for any specific medicinal purposes. Scientific investigations have shown that 25.9% of plants have demonstrated antimalarial activity, with some compounds from Solanum aculeastrum exhibiting moderate antimicrobial effects against certain bacteria, particularly carpensterol 4. Additionally, studies indicate that γ-irradiation can enhance the anti-cancer and antimicrobial properties of Solanum aculeastrum fruit extracts, revealing significant cytotoxic activity against specific cancer cells. No major safety concerns or recorded drug interactions have been identified for this plant to date.
- Best evidence
- A
- Cautions
- —
Informational only. Traditional use does not mean proven effectiveness. Evidence and safety vary — check the cited sources.
What the science says
- A total of 25.9% of recorded plants have been scientifically investigated for antimalarial activities with positive results.
- The study identified several compounds from Solanum aculeastrum fruits that showed significant cytotoxic activity against certain cancer cells.
- Carpensterol and other compounds from Solanum aculeastrum showed moderate antimicrobial activity against some bacteria, with carpensterol 4 being the most active.
- The study found that γ-irradiation enhanced the anti-cancer and antimicrobial properties of Solanum aculeastrum fruit extracts.
Frequently asked questions
What is Apple of Sodom?
Apple of Sodom (Solanum aculeastrum) is a plant documented in FolkKB's traditional-medicine reference, drawn from sourced literature and cross-checked against the evidence.
What does the scientific evidence say about Apple of Sodom?
4 sourced findings are recorded for Apple of Sodom; the strongest carries evidence grade A. For example: A total of 25.9% of recorded plants have been scientifically investigated for antimalarial activities with positive results.
How strong is the evidence for Apple of Sodom?
The strongest finding for Apple of Sodom carries evidence grade A — strong evidence. Grades run A (strongest) to D (preliminary or traditional).
Is Apple of Sodom safe? What are the side effects?
No major safety issues are recorded for Apple of Sodom in our sources, but the data may be incomplete. Consult a qualified professional before use.
Does Apple of Sodom interact with medications?
No drug interactions are recorded for Apple of Sodom in our sources. This does not rule them out — check with a pharmacist.
Is Apple of Sodom a proven treatment?
No. FolkKB is informational only. Traditional use and early findings are not proof of efficacy or safety — consult a qualified professional and never self-treat.
Sources
- T2 A comprehensive review of antimalarial medicinal plants used by Tanzanians. literature abstract metadata
- T2 Cytotoxic constituents from the fruit of Solanum aculeastrum. literature abstract metadata
- T2 Biochemical and biological studies of irradiated and non-irradiated extracts of Solanum aculeastrum Dunal fruit. literature abstract metadata
- T2 Carpensterol: a new steroid from the ethyl acetate fraction of the fruits of Solanum aculeastrum Dunal (Solanaceae) with antimicrobial activities. literature abstract metadata