Although bittersweet nightshade is a relatively weak poison, it
is used almost exclusively for external problems. Use it as a poultice
for gout and herpes. Combined with chamomile it makes a good ointment
for swellings, bruises, sprains, and corns. For skin diseases and
sores, combine with yellow dock.
Description
Bittersweet nightshade is a perennial woody vine found in moist
areas, around houses, and among hedges and thickets in the eastern
and north-central states, the Pacific coast, and in Europe. The
shrubby, thumb-thick, ashy-green, somewhat angular, climbing stern
can reach a length of up to 10 feet. The dark green (or purplish
when young) leaves are alternate and variable in shape. The purple,
star- shaped flowers appear from May to August. The fruit is a scarlet,
bitter berry that hangs on the vine for months after the leaves
have fallen.
Dosage
This is poisonous.
Safety
Caution: This is poisonous.
DO NOT TAKE INTERNALLY WITHOUT THE SUPERVISION OF A QUALIFIED PROFESSIONAL.
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