Nightshade is also known by the name of ‘bittersweet nightshade’. It is said that when the root and stem of the plant are chewed, at first it tastes bitter and then it tastes sweet.

The plant is a climber which trails along the ground and also on other plants and shrubs and even big trees. When the plant is young is looks green and hairy but as it matures it turns smooth and woody. The flowers appear in clusters and hang loosely from the short stalk. They are of purplish blue colour with the petals bent outward and they blossom throughout summer. The alternate leaves are placed in the opposite direction to the flowers. The berry-like fruit turns bright red when ripe. These berries are quite poisonous and harmful when consumed.

Different parts of the plant are used for preparing medicines. The drug produced has narcotic properties. It is highly effective in treating scrofula, skin problems and ulcers. It also cures whooping cough, chronic bronchitis and asthma. It was used in the past for treating chronic rheumatism and jaundice.