Micrometric study and physicochemical evaluation of Solanum nigrum Linn. leaves

Background: Solanum nigrum Linn. (Solanaceae), commonly known as black night shade (Kakamchi), is an herb, traditionally used in the treatment of skin and cardiac disorders. Till date there is no scientific evaluation has been reported on its leaves. Aims and objectives: Present study assumes singular significance and it is supposed to contribute a great deal to the existing literature. The present investigation was, therefore, undertaken to determine the requisite pharmacognostical standards for standardization of leaves of Solanum nigrum Linn. Methods: Macroscopic and microscopic evaluation of fresh leaves and dried powder of leaves was carried out along with their micrometric study. Physicochemical and the preliminary phytochemical investigations of dried powder of Solanum nigrum Linn. leaves were also carried out along with fluorescence analysis. HPTLC finger profile of alcohol extract of leaves was also performed. Results: The pharmacognostical studies of leaves revealed the presence of single layered p alisade parenchyma, anisocytic stomata and multicellular warty trichome, glandular trichomes which are the striking characters of identification of this plant material. The preliminary phytochemical screening of three extracts of the leaf powder sho wed the presence of alkaloids, glycosides, tannins and saponins along with other phytoconstituents. In HPTLC studies, the alcoholic extract showed presence of eleven and nine phytoconstituents at 254 nm and 366 nm wavelengths respectively. Conclusion: The information generated in this study will be helpful for the proper identification and authentification of leaves of this herb.