Solanum dimidiatum is poisonous...what are the effects if eaten by humans?

Question

All I can find on the internet is that it is poisonous...also called the potatoweed and Torrey's Nightshade.

If if helps at all, the particular plant i saw was purple.

Thanks!

Answer 1

Eaten by humans it causes the typical effects of Solanaceae:

salivation, anorexia, severe gastrointestinal disturbances, with diarrhea that is often early and hemorrhagic.

The nervous effects include apathy, drowsiness, depression, confusion, progressive muscular weakness, numbness, dilated pupils,trembling, labored breathing, nasal discharge, rapid heartbeat, weak pulse, bradycardia, CNS depression, and in coordination, often accompanied by paralysis of the rear legs.

Coma may occur without other nervous signs.

High doses may cause intestinal stasis and constipation.Hemolysis and anemia, possibly a result of saponins have been reported.

Renal failure has been reported in severe cases.

Terminal signs include unconsciousness, shock, paralysis, coma, circulatory and respiratory depression, and death.

Known to cause "crazy cow syndrome". Symptoms include staggering, tremors, and lack of coordination. The animal will collapse when frightened and struggle to stand until it has rested for a time. The condition is not lethal but is a permanent disability. Affected animal are susceptible to drowning if frightened in water. The syndrome is not common. ( cit. )

More about Solanum dimidiatum:

http://www.kswildflower.org/details.php?...

http://texnat.tamu.edu/CMPLANTS/toxic/pl...

Answer 2

It can cause stomach upset, vomiting, irritation, abdominal pain, diarrhea, flushing, drooling, drowsiness, exhaustion, dermititis.  

Don't snack on it.