Devil's-fig
Solanum torvum
Solanum torvum, commonly known as bitter nightshade or thorn apple, is a plant native to tropical and subtropical regions of Central and South America. Traditionally, its use has not been well-documented in any specific medical practices. However, scientific studies have shown some promising results; an aqueous extract from the plant demonstrated potential for inhibiting cholesterol absorption in vitro, although further research is needed to confirm these findings over a longer period. Additionally, S. torvum stem bark exhibited significant antimycobacterial activity against M. tuberculosis H37Rv strains in vitro. Oven drying at 70°C combined with boiling pretreatment was found to enhance the nutrient density of its fruits while preserving their color properties. No major safety concerns or recorded drug interactions have been identified for this plant, but further investigation is warranted given the limited data available.
- 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
- The aqueous extract from Solanum torvum showed potential to inhibit cholesterol absorption in vitro, but its long-term efficacy and safety need further investigation.
- The study successfully produced transgenic Solanum torvum plants using leaf explants and Agrobacterium-mediated transformation.
- S. torvum stem bark exhibited significant in vitro antimycobacterial activity against M. tb H37Rv.
- Oven drying at 70°C combined with boiling pretreatment enhanced the nutrient density of Solanum torvum fruits while maintaining favorable color properties.
Frequently asked questions
What is Devil's-fig?
Devil's-fig (Solanum torvum) 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 Devil's-fig?
4 sourced findings are recorded for Devil's-fig; the strongest carries evidence grade D. For example: The aqueous extract from Solanum torvum showed potential to inhibit cholesterol absorption in vitro, but its long-term efficacy and safety need further investigation.
How strong is the evidence for Devil's-fig?
The strongest finding for Devil's-fig carries evidence grade D — preliminary or traditional. Grades run A (strongest) to D (preliminary or traditional).
Is Devil's-fig safe? What are the side effects?
No major safety issues are recorded for Devil's-fig in our sources, but the data may be incomplete. Consult a qualified professional before use.
Does Devil's-fig interact with medications?
No drug interactions are recorded for Devil's-fig in our sources. This does not rule them out — check with a pharmacist.
What are the common names of Devil's-fig?
Devil's-fig is also known as: Aubergine-pois, Fausse aubergine, Aubergine sauvage.
Is Devil's-fig 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 The Effect of Pretreatments (Boiling and Ascorbic Acid) and Different Oven Drying Temperatures on the Nutritional, Anti-Nutritional Values and Color Properties of Solanum torvum Fruits. literature abstract metadata
- T2 Antimicrobial Activity of Solanum torvum Crude Extracts against Important Mycobacterial Strains. literature abstract metadata
- T2 Agrobacterium-Mediated Genetic Transformation in Solanum torvum L. Using Leaf Explants. literature abstract metadata
- T2 Potential lipid-lowering effects of Northern Thai vegetable extracts on the inhibition of cholesterol absorption: emerging in vitro and in vivo models. literature abstract metadata