Family Name: Phytolaccaceae
Botanical Name(s): Phytolacca decandra
Popular Name(s): Poke, Phytolacca Berry, Phytolacca Vulgaris,
American Spinach, Poke Berry
Parts Used: Dried root and berries
Habitat: American nightshade is found in North America and in
Mediterranean countries
Description: American nightshade is a shrubby perennial which
grows up to a height of 8 feet. The plant possesses a large white
taproot and green or red hollow stems. Its leaves are large, simple,
alternate and ovate-lanceolate. Its flowers are white in colour and
fruits are in the form of purple to almost black berries
Uses: American nightshade has narcotic properties. It is used in
chronic rheumatism, haemorrhoids and granular conjunctivitis. It is used
in skin diseases too.
