Evidence supporting the use of: Black nightshade
For the health condition: Eye Infections

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Synopsis

Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 1

Black Nightshade (Solanum nigrum) has been traditionally used in various systems of medicine, including Ayurveda, Traditional Chinese Medicine, and some African folk practices, for a range of ailments, including eye infections. Historical accounts and ethnobotanical surveys note the use of Black Nightshade extracts or leaf juice applied topically or as eye drops to soothe eye inflammation, redness, or infection. The rationale for its traditional use often stems from its perceived anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties attributed to the plant’s phytochemicals such as solanine, solamargine, and various flavonoids.

However, scientific validation for these specific uses is minimal. While some laboratory studies have demonstrated antibacterial and anti-inflammatory activities of Solanum nigrum extracts, these studies are mostly in vitro or performed on non-ocular models. There is a lack of robust clinical trials or animal studies demonstrating efficacy or safety for treating human eye infections. Additionally, concerns exist regarding the potential toxicity of certain alkaloids present in the plant, especially if extracts are applied directly to the eye.

In summary, the use of Black Nightshade for eye infections is primarily justified by traditional practice, with anecdotal and historical evidence, but there is insufficient scientific evidence to support its efficacy or safety for this indication.

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