The Bittersweet Vine

Solanum dulcamara

The Bittersweet vine is also known as Bitter Nightshade, Felonwort, Nightshade, Violet-bloom and Woody Nightshade.

GENERAL DESCRIPTION AND INFORMATION:

Bittersweet is considered a weed in many areas, but is a vine-like perennial herb.

It has long trailing or climbing stems that can reach up to ten feet or longer in length.

The vine has star shaped flowers that are pinkish purple in color and have bright yellow stamens. The flowers bloom in April and last till September. In the fall, the flowers turn into green berries that turn to a bright red color.

TARGET AILMENTS:

Take internally for:

* asthma

* chronic bronchitis

* rheumatism and gout

* menstrual problems

Use externally for:

* eczema

* psoriasis

* warts

PREPARATIONS AND DOSAGES:

Because Bittersweet is toxic, use only under the guidance of a physician.

Parts used: Leaves, stems, root bark

Collection: The stems of the plant are collected in early Fall to mid-Fall, leaves are collected in summer.

Constituents: Dulcamarin, gum, alkaloids, saponins, tannins

Actions: Mild sedative, diuretic, anti-rheumatic, expectorant

SIDE EFFECTS:

Caution: The berries contain a much higher level of alkaloids; they may be poisonous and must be avoided.