Solanum americanum
Family:- Solanaceae
Common name:- American black nightshade
Vernacular name:- Hor, Hurey(Nyishi)
Description
Solanum americanum is an annual or short-lived perennial plant, erect and widely spreading, growing up to 150 cm tall. The plant is used as a vegetable, especially in Arunachal Pradesh by Indigenous people, where it is often collected from the wild & widely sold in the markets. Solanum americanum is one of the most widespread and morphologically variable species belonging to the section Solanum. It can be confused with other black nightshade species in the Solanum nigrum complex(black in color).
Medicinal_Uses
The plant is antispasmodic and vermifuge. A decoction of the whole plant is used as a blood purifier, for treating inflammation, dissipating blood stasis, and to expel worms. The plant is applied externally as a remedy for cardialgia, corroding ulcers, suppurating cancers, deep wounds, skin diseases such as dartre, and for use in poultices for treating kidney pain. The leaves are eaten raw to treat heart pains. The cooked leaves are said to have a heart-clearing effect.
The juice extracted from the leaves is used to relieve chronic conjunctivitis and related inflammations. The pounded leaves are used to treat sores and other skin problems. An infusion of the leaves and stems is used to improve kidney function. A decoction of the root, mixed with lime juice and a pinch of salt, is drunk as a treatment for malaria.
Unknown_Hazards
The bitterness of the plant is associated with a high content of the glycoalkaloid solanine, which is found throughout the plant with the highest concentration in the unripe fruits. In the leaves the concentration increases with age. Solanine is poisonous and only partially soluble in water. Eating a large amount of this vegetable has been associated with diarrhoea and cardiac arrest. The immature fruit is poisonous.
Note:- using of plant as medicinal purpose is not advisable unless you took advice from the expert
Photo sources:- Kimin, Papum Pare (AP)
Reference