Indications
Solanum nigrum is black nightshade, known in Unani medicine as Mako (Makoy). Its leaves and ripe berries, often prepared as a distilled water (arq), are traditionally used for liver complaints such as an enlarged or sluggish liver and jaundice, for mild fever, swelling (oedema) and to cool and soothe inflammation. Scientific evidence for these uses is limited, and it should not replace medical treatment for jaundice, hepatitis or other liver disease.
How It Works
The plant contains plant compounds such as flavonoids and polyphenols with antioxidant effects, and steroidal alkaloids such as solanine. Laboratory and animal studies suggest some liver protecting and anti inflammatory effects, but these have not been confirmed in people. Solanine is toxic in larger amounts; it is concentrated mainly in unripe green berries.
Dosage and Administration
Take by mouth as directed on the label or by a registered Unani practitioner. Never eat wild plants or unripe berries yourself. Do not exceed the stated dose or use it for long periods without advice. Not for young children unless a practitioner advises it.
Interactions
- It may add to the effect of sedatives and anticholinergic medicines (such as Hyoscine or Atropine).
- Tell your doctor about any medicines for liver disease, diabetes or high blood pressure.
Contraindications
Do not use if allergic to plants of the nightshade family (such as tomato, potato or brinjal). Avoid in pregnancy and breastfeeding, and in young children.
Side Effects
Properly prepared products are usually well tolerated at the labelled dose. Possible effects include nausea, stomach upset and diarrhoea. Signs of solanine toxicity include vomiting, stomach cramps, diarrhoea, headache, drowsiness, confusion, dilated pupils and fast heartbeat.
Get urgent medical help if you have severe vomiting or diarrhoea, confusion, very fast or slow heartbeat, difficulty breathing, worsening yellowing of the skin or eyes, or signs of an allergic reaction such as swelling of the face.
Pregnancy and Lactation
Do not use during pregnancy or while breastfeeding, as the plant’s alkaloids may harm the baby and there is no reliable safety information.
Precautions and Warnings
- Jaundice (yellow eyes or skin) always needs a medical check and blood tests to find the cause.
- Use only properly made products at the labelled dose.
- Keep wild plants and berries away from children.
Overdose
Overdose can cause solanine poisoning: vomiting, diarrhoea, stomach pain, drowsiness, confusion, dilated pupils, irregular heartbeat and, in severe cases, fits or collapse. Get emergency medical help straight away.
Therapeutic Class
Unani herbal preparation (hepatic tonic).
Storage
Store below 30°C in a cool, dry place, away from light, with the cap tightly closed and out of the reach of children.
Prepared by the Oshud Alo team from standard drug references. For information only; always follow your doctor's advice.