Solanum nigrum

Solanum nigrum

Solanum nigrum, commonly known as black nightshade, is a plant featured in various traditional medicine systems. It has been traditionally utilized as a diuretic, sedative, and depurative, with applications ranging from treating fever, inflammation, and asthma to managing wounds, boils, and bladder complaints. Scientific evidence regarding its therapeutic use is limited, though some studies suggest solamargine may reduce liver fibrosis by regulating YAP signaling. Other research focuses on its chemical properties, such as saponin synthesis and the potential of its carbon quantum dots in sensor applications. No major safety issues or notable drug interactions are currently recorded in the available data.

At a glance
Traditionally for
diuretic · sedative
Traditions
TCM · traditional · Ayurveda
Best evidence
D
Cautions
—

Informational only. Traditional use does not mean proven effectiveness. Evidence and safety vary — check the cited sources.

Traditional use

What the science says

  • The study found that knockout mutants of SlGAME4 in black nightshade redirect resources towards saponin synthesis, while SlGAME2 is not involved in α-tomatine biosynthesis. D PMID
  • Solanum nigrum-derived carbon quantum dots showed promising fluorescence properties and selectivity for detecting various analytes in sensor applications. D PMID
  • Solamargine reduced liver fibrosis by regulating YAP signaling in hepatic stellate cells and mouse models. D PMID
  • The combined treatment of phosphogypsum and phosphate-solubilizing Bacillus megaterium enhanced lead immobilization and supported Solanum nigrum growth in pot experiments. D PMID

Frequently asked questions

What is Solanum nigrum?

Solanum nigrum (Solanum nigrum) is a plant documented in FolkKB's traditional-medicine reference, drawn from sourced literature and cross-checked against the evidence.

What is Solanum nigrum traditionally used for?

Traditional sources record Solanum nigrum for: diuretic, sedative, sores, boils, depurative, dropsy (edema). This reflects traditional use, not a proven medical treatment.

Which traditions use Solanum nigrum?

Solanum nigrum appears in these traditions in our sources: TCM, traditional, Ayurveda.

What does the scientific evidence say about Solanum nigrum?

4 sourced findings are recorded for Solanum nigrum; the strongest carries evidence grade D. For example: The study found that knockout mutants of SlGAME4 in black nightshade redirect resources towards saponin synthesis, while SlGAME2 is not involved in α-tomatine biosynthesis.

How strong is the evidence for Solanum nigrum?

The strongest finding for Solanum nigrum carries evidence grade D — preliminary or traditional. Grades run A (strongest) to D (preliminary or traditional).

Is Solanum nigrum safe? What are the side effects?

No major safety issues are recorded for Solanum nigrum in our sources, but the data may be incomplete. Consult a qualified professional before use.

Does Solanum nigrum interact with medications?

No drug interactions are recorded for Solanum nigrum in our sources. This does not rule them out — check with a pharmacist.

What are the common names of Solanum nigrum?

Solanum nigrum is also known as: паслён чёрный, morelle noire.

Is Solanum nigrum 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

  1. T3 Dr. Duke's Ethnobotanical Database public domain (USDA ARS — attribute Dr. Duke's)
  2. T2 The Role of Two Glycoalkaloid Metabolism Genes in α-Tomatine Biosynthesis and Basal Defence in Tomato. literature abstract metadata
  3. T2 Synergistic immobilization of lead and enhanced Solanum nigrum growth by phosphogypsum coupled with phosphate-solubilizing Bacillus megaterium: Roles of Pb mineral transformation and rhizosphere microbiome restructuring. literature abstract metadata
  4. T2 Solamargine alleviates liver fibrosis by regulating YAP signaling in hepatic stellate cells. literature abstract metadata
  5. T2 Biomass based carbon quantum dots in sensor applications: a review (2021-2025). literature abstract metadata