Bitter Tomato (Solanum incanum)
vegetable
Solanum incanum is a species of nightshade, a flowering plant in the family Solanaceae. It is native to East Africa, West Africa, the Middle East, and eastwards to India. The species was introduced to Taiwan and Vietnam.
Conditions addressed
How to use
- Eat steamed, roasted, stir-fried, or raw in salads.
- Lightly cooking increases digestibility.
Interactions & contraindications
May affect blood sugar
Watch for: Insulin and oral diabetes medications (metformin, sulfonylureas)
Additive blood-sugar-lowering effects can risk hypoglycemia — monitor glucose closely.
Processed by the liver
Watch for: Any medication that is also processed by liver enzymes (ask your pharmacist — this includes many common prescriptions)
Can alter how quickly the body clears certain medications, raising or lowering their effective dose.
May affect immune activity
Watch for: Immunosuppressants (for transplant or autoimmune conditions)
Immune-stimulating herbs can work against immunosuppressive therapy.