Nightshade
Nightshade
Nightshade (pronounced: /ˈnaɪtʃeɪd/), is a common name for over 2,800 species of plants belonging to the family Solanaceae. The term originates from the Old English 'nihtscada', which translates to 'night shadow'.
Etymology
The term 'nightshade' is derived from the Old English 'nihtscada'. 'Niht' means 'night' and 'scada' means 'shade' or 'shadow'. This is likely due to the plant's preference for growing in shaded areas and its often dark, shadowy appearance.
Description
Nightshade plants are often characterized by their dark, glossy leaves and brightly colored berries. They can be found in a variety of forms, including herbs, shrubs, and trees. Some species are annuals, while others are perennials.
Species
There are several well-known species of nightshade, including:
- Belladonna (Atropa belladonna)
- Potato (Solanum tuberosum)
- Tomato (Solanum lycopersicum)
- Eggplant (Solanum melongena)
- Chili Pepper (Capsicum species)
Toxicity
Many species of nightshade are toxic to humans and animals. The level of toxicity can vary greatly between species and even between different parts of the same plant. The most toxic species is the Belladonna, also known as deadly nightshade.
Medical Use
Despite their toxicity, some nightshade plants have been used in medicine. For example, the Belladonna plant has been used in treatments for gastrointestinal disorders and as a sedative.
See Also
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Nightshade
- Wikipedia's article - Nightshade
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