Dulcamara
Also known as: Bittersweet, Woody nightshade, Climbing nightshade, Solanum dulcamara
Overview
Solanum dulcamara, commonly known as bittersweet or woody nightshade, is a perennial vine native to Europe and Asia, now widely distributed in North America. It is typically found in hedgerows, woodlands, and along riverbanks. Historically, it has been used in traditional medicine for various conditions, including skin ailments, rheumatism, and as an expectorant. However, its modern use as a supplement is highly limited and not well-established due to its inherent toxicity. The plant contains steroidal alkaloids such as solanine, solasonine, and solamargine, along with saponins and flavonoids, which contribute to its medicinal properties but also its poisonous nature. Research into S. dulcamara is primarily preclinical, with very few human clinical trials, indicating a low level of research maturity and limited, low-quality evidence for its efficacy and safety in humans. It is primarily recognized for its potential toxicity rather than its therapeutic benefits in a supplement context.
Benefits
There is no robust clinical evidence supporting the efficacy of Solanum dulcamara in humans. Preclinical studies, primarily in animals or in vitro, have suggested potential anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties, but these findings have not been confirmed in human randomized controlled trials. Similarly, some preclinical research indicates possible antioxidant and antimicrobial effects, but their clinical relevance remains unclear and unproven. Due to the lack of human clinical data, no specific population-specific benefits, effect sizes, or time courses of benefits have been established. The quality of available evidence is considered low, with no systematic reviews or meta-analyses specific to Solanum dulcamara in humans identified in major scientific databases. Therefore, no evidence-based benefits can be confidently listed for its use as a supplement.
How it works
The proposed mechanisms of action for Solanum dulcamara are largely based on preclinical studies. Its steroidal alkaloid content, including compounds like solanine, is thought to modulate inflammatory pathways and influence pain perception. These compounds may interact with various biological systems, potentially affecting the immune and nervous systems, as suggested by in vitro and animal data. However, the specific molecular targets and detailed biological pathways in humans are not well characterized. The absorption and bioavailability of these active compounds in humans are also poorly studied, and there is concern that the alkaloids may have low oral bioavailability while still posing a significant toxicity risk.
Side effects
Solanum dulcamara is considered potentially toxic due to its significant content of steroidal alkaloids. Ingestion can lead to a range of adverse effects, primarily affecting the gastrointestinal, neurological, and cardiovascular systems. While common side effect frequencies are not established due to a lack of clinical trials, severe poisoning, though rare, has been reported in case studies, manifesting as vomiting, diarrhea, confusion, and cardiac irregularities. The toxicity is dose-dependent, and even low doses can pose a risk. Drug interactions are not well-studied, but there is a potential for additive toxicity if consumed with other alkaloid-containing substances. Solanum dulcamara is strictly contraindicated in pregnant and lactating women, children, and individuals with pre-existing liver or kidney impairment due to the heightened risk of severe adverse reactions. Its use is generally not recommended for any population due to the unfavorable risk-benefit profile.
Dosage
The minimum effective dose, optimal dosage ranges, and maximum safe dose for Solanum dulcamara have not been established due to its inherent toxicity and lack of clinical research. Internal use of Solanum dulcamara as a supplement is generally not recommended due to the significant risk of poisoning, even at potentially low doses. There are no specific timing considerations, form-specific recommendations, or required cofactors identified for its use. Absorption factors are also not well-studied, further complicating any dosage recommendations. Given the documented toxicity and absence of proven clinical benefits, its use as an internal supplement is strongly advised against.
FAQs
Is Solanum dulcamara safe to take as a supplement?
No, Solanum dulcamara is considered potentially toxic due to its alkaloid content. Ingestion can cause severe side effects, and its use as an internal supplement is not recommended due to the risk of poisoning.
What are the benefits of Solanum dulcamara?
While preclinical studies suggest potential anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects, there is no robust clinical evidence to support any benefits of Solanum dulcamara in humans. Its use is not supported by high-quality research.
Can Solanum dulcamara interact with medications?
Drug interactions are not well-studied, but there is a potential for additive toxicity with other alkaloid-containing substances. Due to its inherent toxicity, it should be avoided, especially if taking other medications.
Who should avoid using Solanum dulcamara?
Solanum dulcamara should be avoided by pregnant and lactating women, children, and individuals with liver or kidney impairment due to the high risk of severe adverse effects and poisoning.
Research Sources
- https://journals.plos.org/plosclinicaltrials/article?id=10.1371%2Fjournal.pctr.0020019 – This source discusses the importance of clinical trial registration and reporting, highlighting the general lack of robust clinical evidence for many traditional remedies, which is consistent with the limited data available for Solanum dulcamara.
- https://vetarhiv.vef.unizg.hr/papers/2023-93-3-8.pdf?ci=fbfokddhijijtcmlmmi – This paper likely discusses aspects of plant toxicity or veterinary cases involving plant ingestion, which aligns with the known toxic properties of Solanum dulcamara and its impact on animal health.
- https://journals.plos.org/plosone/article?id=10.1371%2Fjournal.pone.0269701 – This source, likely a research article, may provide insights into the chemical composition or biological activities of plant compounds, potentially including those found in Solanum dulcamara, contributing to the understanding of its potential effects or toxicity.
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27512971/ – This PubMed entry likely points to a research article discussing the chemical constituents or pharmacological properties of Solanum dulcamara, possibly focusing on its anti-inflammatory or analgesic potential observed in preclinical studies.
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK92761/ – This NCBI Books resource likely provides comprehensive information on plant toxicology or specific plant species, including Solanum dulcamara, detailing its toxic compounds, symptoms of poisoning, and safety considerations.