Investigating the role of melanin in Solenum nirgum (Black night shade) and its pharmacological activity

Abstract

A widespread edible medicinal herb of the Solanaceae family, Solanum nigrum Linn. is native to Southeast Asia and is now found throughout temperate to tropical parts of Europe, Asia, and America. Leucorrhea, sore throat, toothache, dermatitis, eczema, carbuncles, furuncles, acute nephritis, urethritis, and a variety of malignancies have all been treated with it in the past. From S. nigrum, 188 chemical components have been discovered thus far. Alkaloids, polysaccharides, phenols, and steroidal saponins are the main bioactive components among them. Studies on the pharmacological properties of S. nigrum have shown that this edible medicinal herb has a variety of therapeutic potential, including anticancer, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antibacterial, and neuroprotective properties in vitro and in vivo.