Toxic Risks of Nightshade Species: A comprehensive review of the documented toxicity of Atropa belladonna, Solanum dulcamara, and Solanum nigrum.

Abstract

Abstract: The Solanaceae family comprises numerous species of economic and pharmacological importance, including the toxic deadly nightshade (Atropa belladonna), bittersweet nightshade (Solanum dulcamara), and black nightshade (Solanum nigrum). These plants are native to Europe, North Africa, and Western Asia, and have been used since ancient times in both ritual practices and medicine. A. belladonna contains potent tropane alkaloids (atropine, hyoscyamine, and scopolamine) and is widely utilized in modern pharmacology, although accidental poisonings still occur, often due to confusion with edible plants or the misuse of herbal and homeopathic preparations. In contrast, S. dulcamara contains glycoalkaloids such as solanine, solasodine, and β-solamarine, while S. nigrum contains solanine, solamargine, and solasonine. Both species have a history of traditional use as narcotics, diuretics, and treatments for skin, rheumatic, and respiratory conditions, as well as for pain, inflammation, fever, and other disorders; however, they also pose significant toxicological risks to humans and animals. Although poisonings from these two species are less common than those caused by A. belladonna, they still occur. A review of the literature identified 41 studies reporting poisoning cases associated with these plants, primarily resulting from berry ingestion. Poisoning typically produces anticholinergic syndrome, underscoring the importance of accurate identification and prompt treatment.