Brooks, arthritis!  You may have just hit on something that changed my life 
and not have known it.  I have terrible arthritis, and thought I was doing 
myself a favor eating lots of potatoes (potassium), and tomatoes.  Also have 
had a funny allergic rash for years, and itching skin (not dry).  How can I 
find out if the ongoing allergic reactions are for nightshades.  Doc has 
tested for everything and found no allergic response from known substances.  
suzy 

> 
>                        No, the publishers are not joking.  All of these 
> plants are members of the nightshade family.  They do, in certain cases, 
> exhibit various degrees of toxcity to human beings.  One of the most common 
> symptoms is the occurrence of arthritic conditions. 
>                                         Sincerely,