Abstract

HEPATO-PROTECTIVE ACTIVITY OF AN ETHANOLIC EXTRACT OF AN FRUIT OF SOLANUM NIGRUM FROM THEIR PHARMACOGNOSTICAL, PHARMACOLOGICAL AND PHYTOCHEMICAL SCREENING

Archana P., Idinarulina A., Keerthana S., Kishore A. A., Malathi M., A. Bal Prijith*

ABSTRACT

Solanum nigrum Linn commonly known as black nightshade, is a traditional medicinal plant with notable hepatoprotective potential. This review compiles and analyzes pharmacognostical, phytochemical, in vitro, and in vivo studies related to its liver-protective effects. Phytochemical screening reveals the presence of key bioactive constituents such as alkaloids, flavonoids, saponins, tannins, and phenolic compounds, which are associated with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activity. In vivo experiments using D-galactosamine- induced hepatic fibrosis in rats demonstrated that S. nigrum extract significantly reduced liver enzyme levels (ALT, AST, ALP), lipid peroxidation, and histopathological damage, while enhancing antioxidant enzymes (SOD, CAT, GSH). In vitro assays confirmed strong free radical scavenging capacity, ferric reducing power, and total antioxidant potential. These findings support the traditional use of S.nigrum as a hepatoprotective agent and indicate its potential fordevelopment into a natural therapeutic. Further clinical studies are warranted to establish its safety, efficacy, and standardized formulations for therapeutic use.

Keywords: Hepatoprotective activity, Phytochemical studies, S.nigrum, Antioxidant potential, Pharmacognostical studies, Liver protective effects.