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Vol 2 | Issue 3 | Jul – Sep 2023                                                                           Indian J Pharm Drug Studies | 95 

Review Article 

A review on Pharmacological potential of Solanum nigrum: Pharmacological 

review on Solanum nigrum 

B.M Thejaswini1, Satish S2, Ramkrishna Shabaraya A3 

From 1PG Scholar, 2Professor, Department of Pharmacology, 3Principal and Head of the Department of Pharmaceutics, 

Srinivas College of Pharmacy Valachil, Farangipete post, Mangalore, Karnataka - 574143. 

ABSTRACT 

Solanum nigrum, commonly known as black nightshade, is a plant species that belongs to the family Solanaceae, used in 

traditional medicine systems in various parts of the world for its potential pharmacological properties. The present study is an 

attempt to review the pharmacological potential of Solanum nigrum. Solanum nigrum contains several bioactive compounds, 

including phenolic compounds and flavonoids, which exhibit significant antioxidant activity. Studies have demonstrated that 

Solanum nigrum possess anti-inflammatory effects. Solanum nigrum has shown promising anticancer activity in preclinical 

studies, its extracts have exhibited cytotoxic effects against various cancer cell lines, including lung, breast, colon, and liver 

cancers. The phytochemicals present in this plant are believed to induce apoptosis (cell death) and inhibit the growth of cancer 

cells. Several studies have reported the antimicrobial potential of Solanum nigrum against various pathogens, including 

bacteria, fungi, and viruses. Solanum nigrum has been investigated for its hepato-protective properties. Some research suggests 

that Solanum nigrum may have anti-diabetic properties, reported to possess hypoglycaemic activity. While these studies 

highlight the potential pharmacological properties of Solanum nigrum, it is important to note that further research is still 

needed to fully understand its mechanisms of action and evaluate its safety and efficacy in humans.  

Key words: Black nightshade, Pharmacological potential, Solanum nigrum, Apoptosis. 

edicinal plants have been used by humans for 

centuries in folklore medicine [1]. More than 

2000 species belonging to the genus solanum 

(Solanaceae family) are found in tropical and 

subtropical areas of the world. Solanum nigrum has been 

used traditionally to treat various ailments such as pain, 

inflammation fever and enteric diseases [2]. It is also used 

against sexually transmitted diseases [3]. Throughout 

history, Solanum nigrum has been used in traditional 

medicine systems in different cultures for its potential 

medicinal properties. The plant has been emp- loyed to treat 

various ailments, including inflammation, skin disorders, 

gastrointestinal issues, and respiratory conditions. It has 

also been used as a diuretic and to alleviate pain [4].  

In addition to its historical use in traditional medicine, 

Solanum nigrum has attracted scientific interest due to its  
 

Access this article online 

   Received – 26th May 2023 

   Initial Review – 30th May 2023 

   Accepted – 10th June 2023  

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phytochemical composition and potebtial pharmacological 

activities. The plant contains various bioactive compounds, 

including alkaloids, flavonoids, phenolic compounds, and 

glycoalkaloids such as solasonine and solamargine. These 

compounds are believed to contribute to the plant's 

pharmacological effects, including antioxidant, anti-

inflammatory, antimicrobial, anticancer, hepato-protective, 

and anti-diabetic activities [5]. Solanum nigrumis a weed of 

nitrogen rich soils, amentaceous areas and gardens. An 

infusion of the plant is used as an enema in infants having 

abdominal upsets. It is a household remedy for anthrax 

pustules and is applied locally. Freshly prepared extract of 

the plant is effective in the treatmentof cirrhosis of the liver, 

and also serves as an antidote to opium poisoning [6]. 

While Solanum nigrum shows promise as a medicinal plant, 

it is important to note that further research is needed to fully 

understand its mechanisms of action, determine optima 

dosage, and assess its safety profile. 

________________________________________ 

Correspondence to: B.M Thejaswini, PG Scholar, 

Department of Pharmacology, Srinivas College of 

Pharmacy Valachil, Farangipete post, Mangalore, 

Karnataka, India. Email: bm17thejaswini@gmail.com 

M 

mailto:bm17thejaswini@gmail.com


B.M Thejaswini et al.                                                                         Pharmacological review on Solanum nigrum 

Vol 2 | Issue 3 | Jul – Sep 2023                                                                           Indian J Pharm Drug Studies | 96 

Vernacular Names and Taxonomical Classification: 

Solanum nigrum belongs to the family Solanaceae with 

common names of black nightshade or garden night 

shadeis a plant species that belongs to Plantae (Kingdom}, 

Magnoliophyta (Division), Magnoliopsida (Class), 

Solanales (Order), Solanum (Genus), Solanum Nigrum 

(Species). Vernacular nameincludes Black nightshade 

(English), Ganikesopu (Kannada), Manatakkali 

(Malayalam), Makoya, Kakamachi (Hindi), Kaakesoppu 

(Tulu) [7, 8, 9]. The plant Solanum nigrum L. 

(Solanaceae), commonly known as ‘herbal mora’, is a 

common herb that grows wild and abundantly in open 

fields, whose fruit is used in Mexico’s traditional medicine 

as a nervous tonic [10]. It is a little herbaceous plant that is 

now spread around the world. Tiny white or purple 

flowers, black tiny berries, and dark green leaves are the 

distinguishing features of Solanum nigrum. 

Habitat and Distribution: Crop weed Solanum nigrum is 

widespread. It is an annual plant with a brief lifespan 

reaching a height of 1.25m. These are mostly used as 

source of vegetables and fruits by harvesting the plants 

that emerge naturally as weeds in fields that have been 

cultivated, or in weed plant communities, in moist habitats, 

along fences and highways, in shaded regions, close to 

buildings, and on vacant ground. There are a few reports of 

garden huckleberries being grown for their fruits in North 

America [4, 9]. Only a few countries fully cultivate these 

species. They are quite prevalent in India, mostly in the 

states of Karnataka, Odisha, and Tamil Nadu (Nilgiris). 

They can be found by riverbanks, damp areas, fallow 

plains, and arable regions. The Solanum nigrum plant is 

well adopted to the Mediterranean region.  It is 

continuously dispersed across India's Eastern Ghats, as 

well as in the southern and central areas, which have 

tropical wet climates [11]. 

Botanical Description: Black nightshade is a short-lived 

herbaceous plant or small shrub. Plants are about 0.25-1m 

tall [12]. The entire plant is covered with simple pubescent 

hairs which are angular and are coarsely pubescent on the 

stems [13]. It shows tap roots with few branches and 

numerous small lateral roots pale brown, easily peeled off 

exposing pale yellow wood. It also has erected glabrous or 

pubescent green, slightly woody unbranched stem [4]. 

LEAVES 

The leaves are ovate, the bases are cuneate, 4-10 and 3-7cm 

wide, pubescent, coarsely dentate, the apex is obtuse and 

shortly pointed [14]. The leaves are dull dark green, and 

toothless to slightly toothed on the margins [4]. The petiole 

is about 1-2cm long. The cuneate of the leaf is base wedge 

shaped to broad and descending to the petiole, with 

irregular wavy coarse teeth throughout or on each side and 

smoother soft, and hairy on both sides with five to six veins 

on both sides (Figure 1) [12]. 

 

Figure 1. Solanum nigrum leaves [Photo By; Own work] 

Phytochemicals in leaves:  Investigation of the Solanum 

nigrum leaves reported that it contains the substances, such 

as alkaloid, flavonoids, tannins, saponins, glycosides, 

proteins, carbohydrates, coumarins & phytosterols.  It has 

been found that Solanum nigrum contains substances such 

as steroid alkaloid, steroidal saponins and glycoprotein 

[15]. Solanum nigrum contains two quercetin glycosides 

namely, quercetin +.3-O-(2Gal-_-rhamnosyl)-_-glucosyl 

(1_6)-_-galactoside and quercetin 3-O-_-rhamnosyl (l_2)-_-

galactoside. Also, previously known quercetin 3-glucosyl 

(l_6) galactoside, 3-gentiobioside, 3 - galactoside and 3-

glucoside, were also found [16]. Solanum nigrum possesses 

numerous compounds that are responsible for 

pharmacological activities. Its active components are 

glycoalkaloids, glycoproteins, and polysaccharides, 

polyphenolic compounds such as gallic acid, catechin, 

protocatechuic acid (PCA), caffeic acid, epicatechin, rutin, 

and naringenin [17]. 

Alkaloids: Leaves contain alkaloids, including solanine and 

solanigrine. These alkaloids have been studied for their 

potential antimicrobial, anticancer, and anti-inflammatory 

activities [18]. 

Flavonoids: Leaves are rich in flavonoids, which are 

known for their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory 

properties. Flavonoids found in the leaves include 

quercetin, kaempferol, and rutin [8]. 

Phenolic compounds: The leaves also contain phenolic 

compounds, which contribute to their antioxidant activity. 

These compounds help scavenge free radicals and protect 

against oxidative stress [19]. 

Vitamins: Leaves are a good source of vitamins, including 

vitamin C, vitamin A, and vitamin E. These vitamins 

contribute to overall health and well-being [20]. 



B.M Thejaswini et al.                                                                         Pharmacological review on Solanum nigrum 

Vol 2 | Issue 3 | Jul – Sep 2023                                                                           Indian J Pharm Drug Studies | 97 

Minerals: Leaves contain various minerals such as 

calcium, iron, and potassium, which are essential for proper 

bodily functions [20]. 

Saponins: Saponins are another class of phytochemicals 

found in Solanum nigrum leaves. These compounds have 

been studied for their potential antifungal, antimicrobial 

and anti-inflammatory activities [21]. The leaves of 

Solanum nigrum have been traditionally used for various 

medicinal purposes. Following is some of the reported 

medicinal uses of Solanum nigrum leaves, It is important to 

note that while Solanum nigrum leaves have a history of 

traditional use for these medicinal purposes, following are 

the some of the uses of Solanum nigrum leaves. 

Antioxidant activity: Solanum nigrum leaves contain 

antioxidants that help scavenge free radicals and protect 

against oxidative stress. Consumption of the leaves or 

preparations made from them may contribute to overall 

antioxidant support in the body [19]. 

Diuretic properties: Solanum nigrum leaves have diuretic 

effects, which means they promote increased urine 

production. This property has been traditionally used to 

help flush out toxins from the body and support urinary 

health [12]. 

Respiratory conditions: The leaves of Solanum nigrum 

have been used to alleviate respiratory ailments like cough, 

asthma, and bronchitis. They may be consumed as an 

infusion or decoction to help soothe the respiratory system [7]. 

Gastrointestinal support: Solanum nigrum leaves have 

been used to promote digestive health. They may be 

consumed to relieve constipation, indigestion, and stomach 

discomfort. Additionally, they are believed to possess mild 

laxative properties [8]. 

Anti - microbial activity: The chloroform: methanol 

extracts of leaf of Solanum nigrum showed maximum 

inhibitory activity against Pseudomonas aeruginosa. The 

chloroform: methanol extract of stem of Solanum nigrum 

was highly active against Bacillus subtilis and the acetone 

extract against Pseudomonas aeruginosa. Thus, it revealed 

that leaves and stem of Solanum nigrum possess anti- 

microbial activity [22]. 

Anti-inflammatory properties: The leaves of Solanum 

nigrum possess anti-inflammatory properties and have been 

used to alleviate inflammation-related conditions. 

Methanolic extract of whole plant of Solanum nigrum was 

investigated using carrageenin-induced rat paw oedema and 

egg white induced hind paw oedema methods, which 

demonstrated that plant extract exhibited anti-inflammatory 

activity [23]. The lipid-soluble extract of Solanum nigrum 

leaves possessed anti-inflammatory activity [24]. 

Hypoglycaemic activity: The crude ethanolic extract 

of Solanum nigrum on blood sugar of albino rat after daily 

oral administration of dose at the level of 250mg/kg b. wt. 

for five and seven days respectively. It was noticed that the 

chronic administration for longer duration leads to 

significant decrease in blood sugar compared to control. 

Thus, it is concluded that Solanum nigrum also has the 

antidiabetic property. The aqueous and hydro-alcoholic 

extracts of different parts of Solanum nigrum plant, viz leaf, 

fruit and stem evaluated for hypoglycaemic activity in 

Sprague Dawley rats. Results indicated that aqueous 

extracts of leaf and fruit possess significant hypoglycaemic 

effect in dose dependent manner, followed by hydro 

alcoholic extracts [25].The stem extract of Solanum nigrum 

has no profound effects [26]. 

Anti-seizure property: Of the aqueous extract of the 

leaves of Solanum nigrum was evaluated inchicks, mice and 

rats.  The aqueous leaf extract produced a significantly 

(P<0.05) dose dependent protection against electrically-

induced seizure in chicks and rats, pentylenetetrazole-

induced seizure in mice and rats and picrotoxin-induced 

seizure in mice and rats. The anti-seizure property of the 

extract was potentiated by amphetamine. Thus, study 

suggests that the leaves of this plant may possess anti-

convulsant property in chicks, mice and rats [27]. 

Hepatoprotective effects: Of Solanum nigrum water and 

methanolic extracts were studied in rats. The water extracts 

showed a hepatoprotective effect against CCl 4 -induced 

liver damage, the methanolic extracts of Solanum nigrum 

also had hepatoprotective effects with levels of serum AST, 

ALT, ALP and bilirubin decreasing significantly in animals 

treated with Solanum nigrum methanolic extract compared 

to an untreated group. The Solanum nigrum extract 

significantly lowered the CCl4-induced elevation of hepatic 

enzyme markers and decreased superoxide and hydroxyl 

radical generation [28]. 

Mosquito larvicidal activity: The crude and solvent 

extracts of Solanum nigrum L. leaves were evaluated 

against Culex quinquefasciatus. The results indicated that 

the mortality rates at 0.5% concentration were highest 

amongst all concentrations of the crude extracts. The results 

of regression analysis of crude extract of Solanum nigrum 

revealed that the mortality rate is positively correlated with 

the concentration of the extracts. Results of this analysis 

showed that the ethyl acetate extract of Solanum nigrum 

may be considered as a potent source of a mosquito 

larvicidal agent [29]. 



B.M Thejaswini et al.                                                                         Pharmacological review on Solanum nigrum 

Vol 2 | Issue 3 | Jul – Sep 2023                                                                           Indian J Pharm Drug Studies | 98 

Defence against lead acetate induced toxicity: The 

protective effect of an aqueous leaf extract of Solanum 

nigrum extract was examined against lead acetate Swiss 

albino mice. The results of the present study provide clear 

evidence of defence provided by Solanum nigrum extract 

against lead acetate induced toxicity in brains of albino 

mice [30]. 

FLOWERS 

The flowers of Solanum nigrum have petals greenish to 

whitish. The inflorescence is extra axillary and composed 

of 3-6- flowers. The total pedicel is about 1–2.5 cm long, 

and the pedicel is about 5 mm long and pubescent. The 

calyx is small, shallow cup shaped, about 1.5–2 mm in 

diameter, the corolla is white. The lobes are ovoid and 

oblong about 2 mm long. The filaments are short, anthers 

are yellow, about 1.2 mm long, and about four times the 

length of the filaments, and the apical hole is inward. The 

ovary is ovate and about 0.5 mm in diameter, and the style 

is about 1.5 mm long. The stigma is small (Figure 2) [31]. 

 

Figure 2. Solanum nigrum flowers [Photo By; Own work] 

Phytochemicals in flowers: The flowers of Solanum 

nigrum, contain various phytochemicals that contribute to 

their potential medicinal properties. While research on the 

specific phytochemical composition of Solanum nigrum 

flowers is limited, following are some of the 

phytochemicals that may be present [32, 33] 

Flavonoids: Flavonoids are a class of compounds known 

for their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.  

Glycoalkaloids: Solanum nigrum flowers may also contain 

glycoalkaloids, including solanine and solasonine. These 

compounds are known to have cytotoxic and antitumor 

properties. However, it's important to note that these 

glycoalkaloids can be toxic if consumed in large amounts or 

if the flowers are not properly processed. 

Phenolic compounds: Phenolic compounds, including 

phenolic acids and phenolic glycosides, are commonly 

found in plant flowers. 

Saponins: Saponins are another class of phytochemicals 

that may be found in Solanum nigrum flowers. They have 

been studied for their potential antimicrobial and anti-

inflammatory activities. It's important to note that the 

phytochemical composition of Solanum nigrum flowers 

may vary depending on factors such as plant variety, 

growing conditions, and extraction methods. Further 

research is needed to fully characterize the phytochemicals 

present in Solanum nigrum flowers and their potential 

health benefits. Solanum nigrum have also been 

traditionally used for their medicinal properties. Although 

the flowers are not as widely studied as other parts of the 

plant, they are believed to possess certain medicinal 

benefits. Following is some of the reported medicinal uses 

of Solanum nigrum flowers: 

Anti-inflammatory properties: Like other parts of the 

plant, the flowers of Solanum nigrum are believed to have 

anti-inflammatory properties. They may be used topically 

as poultices or extracts to help reduce inflammation and 

relieve skin conditions such as rashes and irritation [31]. 

Digestive support: Solanum nigrum flowers have been 

used to support digestive health. They are believed to have 

carminative properties, which can help relieve gas, bloating, 

and indigestion. They may also be used to stimulate 

appetite and improve overall digestion [31]. 

Respiratory conditions: The flowers of Solanum nigrum 

have been used in traditional medicine to alleviate 

respiratory ailments. They may be consumed as an infusion 

or decoction to help soothe coughs, pulmonary tuberculosis 

and respiratory congestion [1]. 

Diuretic properties: Solanum nigrum flowers are believed 

to have diuretic effects [13]. Which mean they may help 

increase urine production and promote detoxification. This 

property has been traditionally used to support urinary 

health and assist in flushing out toxins from the body. 

FRUIT 

The fruits are berry. These Berries are usually broadly 

ovoid, dull purple and blackish when ripe about 6-10 mm 

broad, either remains on plants or falls from calyces when 

ripe [34]. Fruit shows thin, papery epicarp, pulpy mesocarp 

and axle placentation, seeds lie free in pulp of fruit. The 

berries of Solanum nigrum contains 4 steroidal alkaloid 

glycosides, Solamargine, Solasonine, α and β-solanigrine. 

The berries have been found to contain a saturated steroidal 

genin, which is identified as trigogenin [9]. Total 76 

steroidal saponins have been isolated and identified in 

Solanum nigrum. Unripefruits of Solanum nigrum have a 

high concentration of solasodine (Figure 3) [12]. 



B.M Thejaswini et al.                                                                         Pharmacological review on Solanum nigrum 

Vol 2 | Issue 3 | Jul – Sep 2023                                                                           Indian J Pharm Drug Studies | 99 

 

Figure 3. Solanum nigrum fruits [1] 

Phytochemicals in fruit: The fruits of Solanum nigrum 

contain various phytochemicals that contribute to their 

potential medicinal properties. Following are some of the 

phytochemicals found in Solanum nigrum fruits [31, 35]: 

Solasonine and solamargine: Solanum nigrum fruits 

contain glycoalkaloids such as solasonine and solamargine. 

These compounds have been studied for their potential 

anticancer properties. 

Flavonoids: Solanum nigrum fruits are rich in flavonoids, 

which are known for their antioxidant and anti-

inflammatory properties.  

Vitamin C: Solanum nigrum fruits are a good source of 

vitamin C, also known as ascorbic acid. Vitamin C is an 

essential nutrient that plays a vital role in immune function 

and acts as an antioxidant in the body. 

Carotenoids: Solanum nigrum fruits contain carotenoids, 

which are responsible for their colour. Carotenoids have 

antioxidant properties and are beneficial for eye health and 

overall well-being. The fruits of Solanum nigrum, have a 

long history of traditional medicinal use in various cultures. 

While the fruits are typically consumed in their ripe state, 

it's important to note that some parts of the plant, including 

unripe fruits and other plant parts, may contain toxic 

compounds. Following are some of the reported medicinal 

uses of Solanum nigrum fruits. 

Antipyretic activity: Solanum nigrum fruits have been 

traditionally used as a febrifuge, meaning they may help 

reduce fever. The fruits may be consumed or used in 

preparations to help lower body temperature during fever 

episodes [12]. 

Wound healing: The ripe fruits of Solanum nigrum have 

been used topically to promote wound healing. They are 

believed to possess antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory 

properties that can help in the healing process [8]. 

Digestive health: Solanum nigrum fruits have been used 

traditionally to support digestive health. They are believed 

to possess laxative properties and may help relieve 

constipation, also used to treat gastritis and promote regular 

bowel movements [13]. It is important to exercise caution 

when consuming Solanum nigrum fruits or using them for 

medicinal purposes. The following are the scientific 

research validated fruits effectiveness and safety in animal 

models 

Antimicrobial activity: The ethanolic fruit extract of 

Solanum nigrum was found to inhibit the Gram-positive 

bacteria. SN extract was found to be most effective against 

S.aureus showing the maximum zone of inhibition followed 

by B. sublitis whereas in case of Gram negative bacteria, 

ethanolic extract was found to be most effective against E. 

coli showing the maximum zone of inhibition followed by 

P.aeruginosa. Interestingly, the ethanolic extract showed 

high activity against C. albicans [36]. 

Analgesic activity: The Solanum nigrum fruit extract was 

evaluated for its central and peripheral pharmacological 

actions by using Eddy’s hot plate and acetic acid induced 

writhing respectively, model revealed that the extract 

possesses analgesic activity [36]. 

Antioxidant properties: The ripe fruits of Solanum nigrum 

are rich in antioxidants. These antioxidants help neutralize 

free radicals in the body, protecting against oxidative stress 

and promoting overall health. The anti-oxidant activity of 

methanolic extract of berries of the plant Solanum nigrum 

was evaluated by tissue biochemical anti-oxidant profile. 

The methanolic extract of berries of the plant Solanum 

nigrum possessed anti-oxidant activity [37]. 

Anticancer activity: The fruits of Solanum nigrum were 

evaluated for anticancer activity on the HeLa cell line. The 

fruits of Solanum nigrum methanolic extract were tested for 

its inhibitory effect on HeLa Cell Line. The cytotoxicity of 

Solanum nigrum on HeLa cell was evaluated by the 

Sulforhodamine B colorimetric assay (SRB) and MTT 

assay. Solanum nigrum methanolic extract has significant 

cytotoxicity effect on HeLa Cell Line [38]. 

Antiulcerogenic effect: Of the methanolic extract of 

Solanum nigrum berries (SBE) on aspirin induced 

ulceration in rats with respect to antioxidant status in the 

gastric mucosa have been investigated. The decreased 

levels of antioxidant enzymes and increased mucosal injury 

were altered to near normal status upon pre -treatment with 

(SBE) when compared to the ulcer induced rats. The results 

indicated that (SBE) may exert its gastro protective effect 

by a free radical scavenging action [37]. 



B.M Thejaswini et al.                                                                         Pharmacological review on Solanum nigrum 

Vol 2 | Issue 3 | Jul – Sep 2023                                                                           Indian J Pharm Drug Studies | 100 

Anti-Diarrhoeal activity: Of ethanolic dried fruit extract 

of Solanum nigrum against castor oil induced diarrhoea in 

mice was investigated. The fruit extract showed a 

significant anti-diarrhoeal activity in mice and in which it 

decreased the frequency of defecation [14]. 

Cardio protective activity: The cardio protective activity 

of methanolic extract of berries of the plant Solanum 

nigrum was evaluated by using global in vitro ischemia-

reperfusion injury carried out using doses of 2.5 and 5.0 

mg/kg for 6 days per week for 30 days. The results indicate 

that the extract exhibited significant (p<0.001) cardio 

protective activity against global in-vitro ischemia-

reperfusion injury. The methanolic extract of berries of the 

plant possessed cardio protective activity [39]. 

Respiratory conditions: The fruits of Solanum nigrum 

have been used to alleviate respiratory ailments, including 

cough and bronchitis. They may be consumed as a 

decoction or infusion to help soothe the respiratory system. 

Petroleum ether, ethanol and aqueous extracts of Solanum 

nigrum berries were screened for the treatment of asthma 

by the various methods. Active petroleum ether extract 

showed presence of anti-asthmatic compound, β-sitosterol. 

 The petroleum ether extract of Solanum nigrum berries can 

inhibits parameters linked to the asthma disease [40]. 

Cytotoxic activity: The ethanolic extract of the dried fruit 

of Solanum nigrum Linnwere tested for cytotoxic activity. 

In the brine shrimp lethality test, the extract showed 

cytotoxicity significantly with LC50= 63.10µg/ml and 

LC90= 160µg/ml [41]. 

SEEDS 

The seeds are mostly nearly ovoid, and discoid. About 1.5–

2 mm in diameter, and compressed on both sides. Seeds are 

smooth, minutely pitted and yellow [34]. The seeds have 

been used in traditional medicine for various purposes 

(Figure 4). 

 

Figure 4. Solanum nigrumseeds [42] 

Phytochemicals in seeds: The seeds of Solanum nigrum 

contain various phytochemicals. However, it's important to 

note that the seeds also contain toxic compounds such as 

solanine and solanidine, which can be harmful if the seeds 

are not properly processed. Here are some of the 

phytochemicals present in Solanum nigrum seeds. [18, 31] 

Solasodine: Solasodine is a steroidal alkaloid found in 

Solanum nigrum seeds. It possesses anti-inflammatory and 

antitumor properties and has been studied for its potential 

therapeutic applications. 

Solanidine: Solanidine is another steroidal alkaloid present 

seeds. It has been studied for its cytotoxic and antitumor 

activitiesin Solanum nigrum 

Glycoalkaloids: Solanum nigrum seeds contain 

glycoalkaloids, including solanine and solasonine. These 

compounds can have toxic effects if consumed in excessive 

amounts. However, in controlled and processed forms, they 

may also have potential medicinal applications. 

Lipids: Solanum nigrum seeds contain high lipid content. 

Their protein content and minerals elements (Mg being 

prominent) are considerable and Solanum nigrum oil is an 

important source of linoleic acid. 

Phenolic compounds: Solanum nigrum seeds also contain 

phenolic compounds, which contribute to their antioxidant 

activity. However, it's important to note that the seeds of 

Solanum nigrum, as well as other parts of the plant, contain 

toxic compounds such as solanine and solanidine. These 

compounds can be harmful if consumed in large quantities 

or if the seeds are not properly processed. As a result, 

caution should be exercised when using Solanum nigrum 

seeds for medicinal purposes following are some reported 

traditional uses of Solanum nigrum seeds: 

Anthelmintic properties: Solanum nigrum seeds have 

been used traditionally as anthelmintic. However, it's 

important to note that the seeds should only be used under 

the guidance due to their potential toxicity [43]. 

Skin conditions: The oil extracted from Solanum nigrum 

seeds has been used topically in some traditional remedies 

for skin conditions such as eczema, itching, and 

inflammation. However, more research is needed to 

validate these uses [8]. It is crucial to consult with a 

healthcare professional or a qualified herbalist before using 

Solanum nigrum seeds for medicinal purposes, on the 

appropriate dosage and ensure the safe and responsible use 

of this plant. The following are the scientific research 

validated seeds effectiveness and safety in animal models. 



B.M Thejaswini et al.                                                                         Pharmacological review on Solanum nigrum 

Vol 2 | Issue 3 | Jul – Sep 2023                                                                           Indian J Pharm Drug Studies | 101 

Antiviral effect: Methanol and chloroform extracts 

of Solanum nigrum seeds exhibited 37% and more than 

50% inhibition of HCV respectively at nontoxic 

concentration. Moreover, antiviral effect of Solanum 

nigrum seeds extract was also analysed against HCV NS3 

protease. The results demonstrated that chloroform extract 

of Solanum nigrum decreased the expression or function of 

HCV NS3 protease in a dose- dependent manner results 

suggest that extract contains potential antiviral agents 

against HCV and combination of Solanum nigrum extract 

with interferon will be better option to treat chronic HCV 

thus it is concluded that seeds of Solanum nigrum possess 

anti-viral activity [44]. 

Antifungal activity: Thethree solvent extracts from leaf 

seed and roots of Solanum nigrum were assayed for 

antifungal activity against fungal strains such as Penicillium 

notatum  Aspergillus niger, Fuserium oxisporium and 

Trichoderma viridae. The zone of inhibitions was 

compared with the standard antibiotics. The organic solvent 

extracts (ethanol, methanol and ethyl acetate) of seeds were 

exhibited strong antifungal activity against all the tested 

fungal strains compared to leaf and root extracts. Among all 

the extracts ethyl acetate seed extract showed high 

antifungal activity [45]. 

CONCLUSION 

The whole plant of Solanum nigrum has medicinal 

properties. The leaves and berries are primarily employed 

as medicines. Solanum nigrum has a wide range of 

therapeutic potential, including antitumor, analgesic, anti-

inflammatory, anticancer, antiallergy, antiviral, antioxidant, 

antibacterial, neuro-protective and hepato-protective 

activities. Consequently, additional research is necessary to 

separate the active components from the Solanum nigrum 

extract for the proper drug development to address the 

health issues by carrying out additional clinical trials. 

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B.M Thejaswini et al.                                                                         Pharmacological review on Solanum nigrum 

Vol 2 | Issue 3 | Jul – Sep 2023                                                                           Indian J Pharm Drug Studies | 102 

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How to cite this article: B.M Thejaswini, Satish S, 

Ramkrishna Shabaraya A. A review on Pharmacological 

potential of Solanum nigrum: Pharmacological review on 

Solanum nigrum. Indian J Pharm Drug Studies. 2023; 

2(3) 95-102. 

Funding: None               Conflict of Interest: None Stated 

 


