Berries edible or poisonous?

Which parts of the black nightshade are edible?

In some areas the ripe berries of the black nightshade are actually eaten, they are even said to be very tasty. However, the cores it contains are considered to bepoisonous. Consumption is therefore generally not recommended.

Which substances does the black nightshade contain?

The black nightshade contains various alkaloids that are also found in others Nightshade family occurrence. One of them is the relatively well-known solanine. In addition to the alkaloids, tannins can also be found. The herb, i.e. leaves and stems, as well as the kernels and the unripe berries are considered poisonous. Consumption is strongly discouraged.

What are the symptoms of poisoning?

When black nightshade is poisoned, there are various symptoms that can affect the digestive and cardiovascular systems. In addition to drowsiness and anxiety, nausea, vomiting and diarrhea can occur, but also heart failure and shortness of breath. In the worst case, death from respiratory paralysis threatens. The black nightshade is also very poisonous for animals, which is why it is also nicknamed "chicken death".

Where does black nightshade grow?

The black nightshade literally grows like weeds, i.e. everywhere where the seeds get into the ground, be it in the wild, at the edges of roads and fields, or in the garden. The seeds can germinate for a very long time. There is talk of up to 40 years. Once established, the black nightshade is difficult to get fight.

The essentials in brief:

• Ingredients contained: alkaloids (solanine and others), tannins
• Ripe berries without seeds may be edible
• Herbs (stems and leaves), seeds and unripe berries are more or less poisonous
• Symptoms of poisoning: salivation, drowsiness, vomiting, diarrhea, anxiety, red head, shortness of breath, unconsciousness, respiratory paralysis
• extremely poisonous for animals