Ashleigh Smith + photo

Ashleigh Smith

May 16
2 min read
bubble 0
Young tomato plant sprouting from the ground

Nightshade vegetables are one of the families of plants that get a lot of gossip thrown around about them. But what are they? Nightshade vegetables are the edible portions of some plants from the Solanaceae family.

These plants are known for their antioxidants and anti-inflamatory phytonutrients making their fruit a great addition to your regular diet. However, it is recommended that you avoid consuming their leaves.

Nightshade foliage often contains high concentrations of the alkaloid solanine. This is a substance within the leaves and stems that contains nitrogen. In nature it acts as a natural insect repellent protecting your plants from potential insect threats throughout the growing season.

Consuming these leaves would be dangerous as the concentration of alkaloids would cause severe reactions and may even be poisonous. However, because the fruits of these plants contain extremely little to no alkaloids with an abundance of antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals they can be utilized in your everyday cooking.

Like all foods you can have varying levels of sensitivities and reactions to eating nightshade fruits. If you notice any swelling, numbing, hives, or other reactions occuring after eating any fruit or vegetable, nightshade or not, visit your healthcare provider. While nightshade fruits offer many health benefits, some people may need to avoid including them in their diets.

Some of the most common nightshade fruits and vegetables include Tomatoes, Tomatillos, Peppers, Eggplant, and potatoes. Of these, the only vegetable to produce any solanine are potatoes when they turn green in response to light reactions during growth. At this point the potatoes should be discarded and not eaten.

Some claims are made that nightshade fruits contribute to autoimmune diseases, however further research is needed for conclusions to these claims. For diet related advice tailored to you, schedule a visit with your local healthcare providers and dieticians.

Our Recommended Picks

Leave a comment

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

0 Comments

No Comments yet! Be the first to start a conversation

  1. Seed Inoculant Guide: Benefits for Legumes and Soil Healthinoculated pea cover crop

    Seed Inoculant Guide: Benefits for Legumes and Soil Health

    Written By Lara Wadsworth It is common knowledge these days that healthy soil is critical for healthy plants. While Mother Nature is very good at taking care of her own, yet if you have gardened or farmed for any length of time, you know that sometimes...


    Ashleigh Smith + photo

    Ashleigh Smith

    2025-09-16
    4 min read
    bubble 0
  2. Improve Your Cardiovascular Health with Microgreensheart-shaped bowl of microgreens

    Improve Your Cardiovascular Health with Microgreens

    Written By Lara Wadsworth Heart disease remains the leading cause of death worldwide. This deadly disease is sweeping across America at an alarming rate. However, much of it ties back to lifestyle factors we can control, such as diet and exercise. Few ...


    Ashleigh Smith + photo

    Ashleigh Smith

    2025-09-16
    6 min read
    bubble 0
  3. September Planting Guide By Zonegardener wearing gloves holding a peony root

    September Planting Guide By Zone

    Written By Lara Wadsworth September gardening brings cooler air, shifting light, and new opportunities for planting and harvesting. Whether you’re in Zone 3 racing frost or Zone 10 just starting winter crops, here’s what to plant this month. Understand...


    Ashleigh Smith + photo

    Ashleigh Smith

    2025-09-03
    10 min read
    bubble 0
  4. True Leaf Market

    Microgreens Grow Lights Guide: Best Options for Beginners & Pros

    Written By Lara Wadsworth Microgreens are one of the easiest and most rewarding indoor crops to grow. They are easily grown by anyone in any situation, and they are absolutely packed with nutrition and flavor. You can harvest them in 2 weeks or less, w...


    Ashleigh Smith + photo

    Ashleigh Smith

    2025-09-03
    7 min read
    bubble 1