American Nightshade
Phytolacca americana
Phytolacca americana, commonly known as pokeweed or American inkberry, is a traditional plant native to North America. Traditionally, it has not been extensively used in any specific medicinal practices; however, its fruits have shown high antioxidant activity and contain significant levels of ascorbic acid. Scientific evidence suggests that Phytolacca americana may have potential for use in remediating soil contaminated with manganese (Mn) due to its ability to hyperaccumulate this element. Additionally, the plant's habitat suitability is expected to expand under future climate scenarios, though the exact patterns vary depending on different climate models. A new sawfly species, *Siobla longitheca*, has been identified feeding on Phytolacca americana, highlighting its ecological role. Safety-wise, no major concerns have been reported for this plant. There are currently no recorded drug interactions associated with Phytolacca americana.
- Best evidence
- D
- Cautions
- —
Informational only. Traditional use does not mean proven effectiveness. Evidence and safety vary — check the cited sources.
What the science says
- This review compiles information on Mn hyperaccumulators like Phytolacca americana, highlighting their potential for Mn pollution remediation.
- The study found that Phytolacca americana's habitat suitability may expand to northern and higher-elevation regions under future climate scenarios, with non-linear shifts varying by scenario.
- This study describes a new sawfly species, Siobla longitheca, which feeds on the invasive Phytolacca americana.
- Phytolacca americana fruits showed high antioxidant activity and contained high levels of ascorbic acid.
- Foliar silicon application significantly increases rare earth element accumulation in Phytolacca americana by up to 172.4% in pot experiments.
Frequently asked questions
What is American Nightshade?
American Nightshade (Phytolacca americana) is a plant documented in FolkKB's traditional-medicine reference, drawn from sourced literature and cross-checked against the evidence.
What does the scientific evidence say about American Nightshade?
5 sourced findings are recorded for American Nightshade; the strongest carries evidence grade D. For example: This review compiles information on Mn hyperaccumulators like Phytolacca americana, highlighting their potential for Mn pollution remediation.
How strong is the evidence for American Nightshade?
The strongest finding for American Nightshade carries evidence grade D — preliminary or traditional. Grades run A (strongest) to D (preliminary or traditional).
Is American Nightshade safe? What are the side effects?
No major safety issues are recorded for American Nightshade in our sources, but the data may be incomplete. Consult a qualified professional before use.
Does American Nightshade interact with medications?
No drug interactions are recorded for American Nightshade in our sources. This does not rule them out — check with a pharmacist.
What are the common names of American Nightshade?
American Nightshade is also known as: Лаконос американский.
Is American Nightshade 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
- T2 Resources of manganese hyperaccumulators and mechanisms of plant tolerance to excess manganese: A review. literature abstract metadata
- T2 Foliar silicon application enhances rare earth element accumulation in the hyperaccumulator Phytolacca americana. literature abstract metadata
- T2 Evaluation of Nutraceutical Properties of Fruits Derived from Some Wild-Growing Plant Species (Sambucus nigra L., Rubia tinctorum L., Phytolacca americana L. and Sambucus ebulus L.). literature abstract metadata
- T2 Siobla longitheca: a new sawfly species specializing on the invasive Phytolacca americana. literature abstract metadata
- T2 Climate-Driven Prediction of the Future Distribution of Phytolacca americana L. Using a BIOMOD2 Ensemble Modelling Framework. literature abstract metadata