Poroporo
As with many native plants, information on the medicinal effects of this plant is scarce, however the berries and leaves appear to have had traditional uses as a food and to treat skin complaints. Poroporo is now used primarily as a topical anti-inflammatory in the treatment of inflammatory skin conditions such as eczema. The constituent believed to be responsible for the healing activity of this plant is the steroidal saponin solasonine.
Botanical name: Solanum aviculare & Solanum laciniatum
Common name: Kangaroo apple, nightshade, poroporo, bullibulli
Part used: Herb
Steroidal saponins have a close structural relationship to steroid hormones produced by the body (e.g. the anti-inflammatory steroid cortisol). Solasonine, is used commercially as a precursor for the production of complex steroidal compounds in Europe and is believed to either interact directly with steroid receptors on the outside of cells, or act as a precursor for the body’s own production of anti-inflammatory steroid hormones within the body (i.e.. the body manufactures its steroid hormones from these substances).
Frequently asked questions
What is poroporo?
Poroporo is a fast-growing native shrub with deeply lobed leaves, purple flowers and bright orange berries. The name covers two closely related species, Solanum laciniatum and Solanum aviculare, which share similar cultural uses, with S. laciniatum being the more common in New Zealand. Poroporo belongs to the nightshade family, making it a cousin of the tomato and potato, and in Australia it’s known as kangaroo apple.
What is poroporo used for?
Poroporo is traditionally used to soothe and relieve the skin. In rongoā Māori, the leaves were pounded and pulped to use as a salve on itchy skin and sores, or the young leaves and shoots were boiled into a strong infusion and applied to irritated skin. Poroporo was also used as a poultice for ulcers, eruptions and scabies, and the pith of dried stems was used for bruises. The boiled leaves were even used as a shampoo, said to give hair a glossy shine and help with dandruff.
Is poroporo poisonous?
Yes, the leaves and unripe berries are toxic. Poroporo contains a natural alkaloid called solasodine in its leaves and unripe fruit, and all green parts of the plant should be treated as highly poisonous. Traditionally, Māori ate the berries only once they were fully ripe, orange and splitting. Because the difference between ripe and unripe can be risky to judge, it’s best not to eat poroporo from the wild, and to keep children and pets away from the plant.
What is the link between poroporo and the contraceptive pill?
Poroporo contains solasodine, a steroidal compound that can be used as a raw material for making contraceptive pills and anti-inflammatory drugs. In the late 1970s, there was a short-lived attempt in New Zealand to grow and process poroporo leaves for this purpose. Interestingly, poroporo leaves were also traditionally taken by some Māori women to prevent conception, a practice that continued into the mid-20th century. Given the plant’s toxicity, poroporo should never be taken internally for this or any other purpose.
How do you use poroporo safely?
Poroporo is for external use only. Today, it’s best used in formulated balms, creams or ointments made for the skin, which offer a safe and convenient way to enjoy its traditional soothing benefits. Apply to unbroken skin, do a patch test first, and stop use if irritation occurs. Never eat the leaves or unripe berries, and don’t make homemade preparations from wild plants. Check with your healthcare professional before use if you’re pregnant or breastfeeding, and check the label’s age guidance before using on children.