Plants of the Nightshade Family: The Benefits and Dangers of Nightshade
Dangers Associated with Plants of the Nightshade Family
It is important for anyone starting to use herbal remedies to understand the benefits and dangers of common herbs. In this case the plants of the nightshade family that are usually found in some ancient therapies and herbal tonics. While the nightshade herbs can provide some effective assistance in eliminating symptoms of various medical conditions, some plants do have a high level of toxicity. They should never be used unless safe dosing instructions have been set by an expert. Growing these herbs and not using a proper measuring system is very dangerous. They should also not be used unless a person can tell the difference between the plants. Mistaking one nightshade plant from another can prove to be fatal.
In homeopathy the herbs are never used in their natural state. They are diluted until no molecules of the actual plants of the nightshade family are left. Only trace elements that send signals to the brain remain. This is how they are both safe and effective.
Plants of the Nightshade Family: Black Nightshade
Black nightshade is often used to relieve problems in the digestive tract. Stomach aches, colitis, ulcers, etc. can be effectively treated with the leaves. It has long been used by people with asthma. So, not only does the black nightshade work well internally but it is often used externally to treat eczema, acne and psoriasis. Pain is also effectively treated when hot wet leaves are applied to painful or sore areas of the body.
When this plant bears fruit it is important to note that the danger lies in the green areas of this fruit. Green portions are reported to contain high levels of toxicity.
Plants of the Nightshade Family: Bittersweet Nightshade
The bittersweet nightshade is also referred to as the woody nightshade. It is distinguished by its woody base. This plant has many medicinal benefits such as treating conditions such as: skin diseases, bronchial irritation, ulcers, asthma, whooping cough, rheumatism and jaundice. The parts that are used in this plant of the Nightshade family are the branches, the shoots and leaf extracts.
Plants of the Nightshade Family: Deadly Nightshade
This particular plant of the nightshade family is called Belladonna. This is a very dangerous herb that has been present in herb lore and natural remedies for centuries. It is so toxic that arrows and spear used to be tainted by the plant to kill their target. It has long been a poison that has had a place in many of the old tales, myths and legends.
As for the medicinal properties of this plant of the nightshade family, it can effectively treat symptoms of Irritable Bowel Syndrome, motion sickness, inflammation, cramps, headaches, and it has been widely used for its sedative nature.
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