Knowledgebase
Asked June 16, 2016, 2:25 PM EDT
I think you get the point..She feels better now, and knows not to eat a small piece of leaf..
I still though would like an answer out of curiosity, if you happen to find what may have caused this..Thanks for your help....PG
Dutchess County New York
Expert Response
I consulted colleagues who are Horticulture Specialists with University of Missouri Extension. This is their response.
Peppers are solanaceous plants. Solanaceae is also known as the nightshade family. This plant family has high concentrations of alkaloids, and are generally to be avoided, except when you know a part of the plant is safe, like a pepper or tomato fruit. Potato tubers are ok, for example, but the true fruit of the potato (a small, green, tomato-like fruit) is considered "toxic". As far as I know, no leaves on any solanaceous plant would be considered edible, because of the alkaloids.
This reference from the MO Botanical Garden (see page 2) states the green parts/leaves of this family of plants, as well as sun-scalded potatoes, should not be eaten-
She should probably consult a doctor, if she has not already. She may also use the poison control center (1-800-222-1222) as a reference.
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