INTRODUCTION:

The solanaceae is a large varied family of trees, shrubs and herbs including 90 genera and more than 2000 species. Solanaceae are known for possessing a diverse range of alkaloids. The molecules of these compounds have a characteristic bicyclic structure and include Scopolamine, Atropine and hyoscyamine. Therapeutically, these are the most powerful known anticholinergics in existence, meaning they inhibit the neurological signals transmitted by the endogenous neurotransmitter, acetylcholine. Symptoms of overdose may include mouth dryness, dilated pupils, ataxia, urinary retention, hallucinations, convulsions, coma and death¹.

Despite the extreme toxicity of the tropanes, they are important drugs when administered in appropriate dosages. They can reverse the cholinergic poisoning which can be caused by overexposure to pesticides and chemical warfare agents such as sarin. More commonly, they can halt many types of allergic reactions. Scopolamine, a commonly used ophthalmological agent, dilates the pupils and thus facilitates examination of the interior of the eye. They can also be used as antiemetics in people prone to motion sickness or receiving chemotherapy.

Medicinally important species of the family Solanaceaes belong to following genera namely^{2, 3}:

Ø Solanum

Ø Atropa

Ø Capsicum

Ø Datura

Ø Withania

Ø Hyoscymus

Ø Nicotiana

Ø Miscellaneous- These species are extensively used for medicinal purpose throughout the country.

Solanum ^{3, 4}

Solanum, the nightshade is one of the largest and hyper diversity genus of the family Solanaceae. Its hyper diversity not only makes it interesting from taxonomic point of view but as well as for its usefulness to mankind. They grow as forbs, vines, sub shrubs. Shrubs and small trees, and often have attractive fruits and flowers. The genus nowadays contains roughly 1,500 to 2,000 species. The members of this genus are being used for medicinal purpose from ancient time.

The most parts of these plants, especially the green parts and unripe fruits, are poisonous to humans but many species in the genus bear some edible parts, such as fruits, leaves or tubers. Several species are cultivated, including three globally important food crops:

Ø Tomato, S. lycopersicum

Ø Potato, S. tuberosum

Ø Eggplant, S. melongena

The use of S. nigrum L. species is mentioned in all the early herbals, with Dioscoride being one of the first to record their medicinal properties.

It was recorded that S. nigrum is useful in panic in head, heart burning and heat of stomach.

Nightshade is extensively used for the treatment of burns and ulcers by Arabs.

Antiseptic, anti-inflammatory, antidysenteric properties were also recorded for S. nigrum L.

Recent reports attributed antitumour and anticancer effects to herbal extract of S. nigrum.

This species is also having the properties of anti malarial activities.

Both S.americanum Mill. and S. villosum Mill are very important and close relative of S. nigrum L.

S. americanum used for the treatment of sores (using powdered leaves) for rheumatic pains, (leaf infusions) cold cure, (chewed roots) eye diseases, (leaf juice mixed with the salt) for heart pain (raw leaves) and for inflamed eyes. (Fresh leaves and juice)

S. villosum is effective in the treatment of swelling and for the sore eyes. It is also used to treat enlargement of spleen, liver, piles, gonorrhoea and hydrophobia. Solanum incanum L. and S. melongena L. are closely related species of this genus.

S. incanum is used for the treatment of toothache, sore throat and chest complaints.

S. melongena L. used mainly as a food crop, but it does have various medicinal uses that make it a valuable addition to the diet.

The fruit is botanically classified as a berry, and contains numerous small, soft seeds, which are edible, but are bitter because they contain (an insignificant amount of) nicotinoid alkaloids, unsurprisingly as it is closely relative of tobacco.

In particular the fruit helps to lower blood cholesterol levels and is suitable as part of diet to help to regulate high blood pressure.

The ashes of the penducle are used in the treatment of intestinal hemorrhages, piles and toothache. A decoction is applied to discharging sores and internal hemorrhages. A soothing and emmolient poultices for the treatment of burns, abscesses, cold sores and similar conditions can be made from the leaves.

S. surattense B. is another important species of this genus. Root is expectorant, used in Ayurvedic medicine for cough, asthma and chest pain. Also used for flatulence, sore throat, and toothache.

This plant has high concentration of solasodine, a starting material for the manufacture of cortisone and sex hormones.

Bitter fruits are used in Indian curries.

Another prostrate herb of this genus is S. cordatum L. The juice of crushed leaves and fruit is is used for relieve of pain, heartburns and in digestive system disorders.

S. torvum, S. erianthum, S. anguivi and S. psudo-capsicum are four medicinally important species of the genus Solanum.

The fruits of the S. torvum used for spleen troubles.

The dried herbage of S. erianthum with water is said to be good for the treatment of inflammation and burns.

The parts of this plant are also useful in curing body pain, vertigo and urinary troubles.

The part of S. anguivi and S. pseudo-capsicum contain the alkaloid solanine.

The juice of the plant is diuretic and used for the treatment of problems of urinary track.

The potato is a starchy, tuberous crop from the perennial S. tuberosum of the Solanaceae family (also known as the nightshades). The word potato may refer to the plant itself as well as the edible tuber. In the region of the Andes, there are some other closely related cultivated potato species. Potatoes are the world's fourth largest food crop, following rice, wheat, and maize.

1) Long-term storage of potatoes requires specialized care in cold warehouses.

2) Warehouses are among the oldest and largest storage facilities for perishable goods in the world.

The major species grown worldwide is Solanum tuberosum (a tetraploid with 48 chromosomes), and modern varieties of this species are the most widely cultivated. There are also four diploid species (with 24 chromosomes): Solanum stenotomum, Solanum phureja, Solanum goniocalyx and Solanum ajanhuiri. There are two triploid species (with 36 chromosomes): Solanum chaucha and Solanum juzepczukii. There is one pentaploid cultivated species (with 60 chromosomes): Solanum curtilobum.

Potato contains vitamins and minerals that have been identified as vital to human nutrition, as well as assortment of phytochemicals, such as carotenoids and polyphenols. A medium sized potato with skin provides vitamin C, Potassium, vitamin B6 and trace amount of thiamine, riboflavin, folate, niacin, magnesium, phosphorus, iron and Zinc. Nutritionally, the potato is best known for its carbohydrate contents. The predominant form of this carbohydrate is starch. A small but significant portion of this starch is resistant to digestion by enzymes in the stomach and small intestine, and so reaches the large intestine essentially intact. This resistant starch is considered to have similar physiological effect and health benefits as fiber, it provides bulk, offers sensitivity, lower plasma cholesterol level and triglyceride concentration.

Potatoes contain toxic compounds known as glycoalkaloids, of which the most prevalent are solanine and chachonine. These gltcoalkalloids may cause headaches, diarrhea, cramps, and in severe cases coma and death; however, poisoning from potatoes occurs very rarely.

Potatoes are used to brew alcoholic beverages such as vodka, potcheen, or akvavit. They are also used in food industry as thickener and binder of soups and sauces, in textile industry as a adhesives.

S. lycopersicum (Tomato) is a herbaceous usually sprawling plant in the nightshade family that is typically cultivated for its edible fruit. Its consumption is believed to benefit the heart among other things. They contains lycopene, one of the most powerful antioxidants. Studies have been showed to help to prevent prostate cancer. It also increases the skin’s ability to protect against harmful UV rays. It contains vitamin C. Tomato consumption has been associated with decreased risk of breast cancer, head and might be strongly protective against neurodegenerative diseases.

S. chrysophyllum is a flowering plant species in the nightshade family (Solanaceae). It probably belongs to those species formerly in Solanum but nowadays placed in Lycianthes, though its exact identity and name remain undetermined.

It is endemic to Ecuador. Its status is insufficiently known.

S. pimpinellifolium, commonly known as the Currant Tomato, is a species of nightshade that is native to Ecuador but naturalized elsewhere, such as the Galápagos Islands. Its small fruits are edible.

S. sisymbriifolium is commonly known as Sticky Nightshade, the Fire-and-Ice plant, Litchi Tomato, or Morelle de Balbis.

The small edible fruits are red on the outside and yellow inside. It grows inside a husk (like the tomatillo) which burst open when the fruit ripens. The flavor resembles sour cherries and a little bit like a tomato.

This plant has been used as a trap crop to protect potatoes from potato cyst nematode. The stems and leave contain solasodine which makes the plant very resistant to many pests and diseases, with the exception of potato beetles and tomato worms. It can also be used as a hedge plant to keep animals out of a garden, because it is covered with thorns.

S. aviculare, commonly called Poroporo or Kangaroo apple. The leaves and unripe fruit contain the toxic alkaloid solasodine. It is used as a base material for the production of steroid contraceptives.

Atropa ^{[3] [4] [5]}

These are branching herbaceous often growing as a sub shrub, from a fleshy rootstock.

The roots and leaves of A. acuminata are used as diuretics, mydriatic, narcotic, and sedative. Although it is poisonous, has a long history of medicinal use and has wide range of applications. In particular it is used to dilate pupils in eye operations, to relieve intestinal colic and to treat peptic ulcers.

It has also been used as an antidote in cases of mushroom or toadstool poisoning.

This is a very poisonous plant. It should be used with extreme caution and only under supervision of a qualified practitioner.

All parts of the plant are analgesic, antidote, antispasmodic, diuretic, hallucinogenic, mydriatic, narcotic and sedative.

The root is the most active part of the plant.

All parts of the plant contain tropane alkaloids. The leaves contain on an average 0.4 % active alkaloids, whilst the root contains around 0.6 %

These alkaloids inhibit the parasympathetic nervous system, which controls involuntary body activities. This reduces saliva, gastric, intestinal and bronchial secretions, as well as the activity of the urinary tubules, bladder and intestines.

An extract of the plant has been used as eye drops. It has the effect of dilating the pupils thus making it easier to perform eye operations.

In the past women used to put the drops in their eyes in order to make them larger and thus more beautiful.

The entire plant is used is used to make a homeopathic remedy. This is used especially in cases where there is localized and painful inflammation that radiates heat. It is also used to treat sunstroke and painful menstruation.

A. belladonna is one of the most toxic plants found in this family. The berries pose the greatest danger to children because they look attractive and have a somewhat sweet taste.

The consumption of two to five berries by children and ten to twenty berries by adults can be lethal. The root of the plant is generally the most toxic part. Ingestion of a single leaf of the plant can be fatal to an adult.

The active agents in belladonna atropine, hyoscine (scopolamine) and hyoscymine have anticholinergic properties.

The symptoms of belladonna poisoning include dilated pupils, sensitivity to light, blurred vision, tachycardia, loss of balance, staggering, headache, rash, flushing, dry mouth and throat, slurred speech, urinary retention, constipation, confusion, hallucinations, delirium and convulsions.

The plants deadly symptoms are caused by atropine’s disruption of the parasympathetic nervous system’s ability to regulate non-volitional/subconscious activities such as sweating, breathing and heart rate.

The antidote for belladonna poisoning is physostigmine or pilocarpine, the same as for atropine.

The common name belladonna originates from its historic use by women- Bella Donna is Italian for beautiful lady. Today it is known that the atropine in belladonna acts as an antimuscarinic, blocking the receptors in the muscles of the eye that constrict the pupil size.

Belladonna is currently rarely used cosmetically, as it carries the adverse effects of causing minor visual distortions, inability to focus on near objects and increased heart rate. prolonged usage was reputed to cause blindness.

A. belladonna has been used in traditional treatments for centuries for an assortment of conditions including headache, menstrual symptoms, peptic ulcer disease, histaminic reactions, inflammations and motion sickness.

Homeopathic belladonna preparations have been sold as treatment for various conditions although there is no specific evidence to support their efficacy.

A. belladonna is also toxic to many domestic animals, causing narcosis and paralysis.

Capsicum ^{[3] [4]}

Capsicum (or pepper in the U.S., Canada, United Kingdom and Ireland) is a genus of flowering plants in the nightshade family, Solanaceae. Its species are native to the Americas, where they have been cultivated for thousands of years by the people of the tropical Americas, and are now cultivated worldwide. Some of the members of Capsicum are used as spices, vegetables, and medicines. The fruit of Capsicum plants have a variety of names depending on place and type. They are commonly called chilli pepper, red or green pepper, or sweet pepper in Britain, and typically just capsicum in Australia, New Zealand, and Indian English. The large mild form is called bell pepper in the U.S. and Canada. They are called paprika in some other countries (although paprika can also refer to the powdered spice made from various capsicum fruit). The generic name is derived from the Greek word καπτο (kapto), meaning "to bite" or "to swallow."

The fruit of most species of Capsicum contains capsaicin (methyl vanillyl nonenamide), a lipophilic chemical that can produce a strong burning sensation in the mouth of the unaccustomed eater. Most mammals find this unpleasant, whereas birds are unaffected. The secretion of capsaicin protects the fruit from consumption by mammals while the bright colors attract birds that will disperse the seeds.

Capsaicin is present in large quantities in the placental tissue (which holds the seeds), the internal membranes and, to a lesser extent, the other fleshy parts of the fruits of plants in the genus Capsicum. Contrary to popular belief, the seeds themselves do not produce any capsaicin, although the highest concentration of capsaicin can be found in the white pith around the seeds.

The amount of capsaicin in Capsicums is highly variable and dependent on genetics, giving almost all types of Capsicums varied amounts of perceived heat. The only Capsicum without capsaicin is the bell pepper, a cultivator of C. annum, which has a zero rating on the Scoville scale. The lack of capsaicin in bell peppers is due to a recessive gene that eliminates capsaicin and, consequently, the "hot" taste usually associated with the rest of the Capsicum family.

Capsicum fruits and peppers can be eaten raw or cooked. Those used in cooking are generally varieties of the C. annum and C. frutescens species, though a few others are used as well. They are suitable for stuffing with fillings such as cheese, meat or rice.

They are also frequently used both chopped and raw in salads, or cooked in stir-fries or other mixed dishes. They can be sliced into strips and fried, roasted whole or in pieces, or chopped and incorporated into salsas or other sauces.

They can be preserved in the form of a jam, or by drying, pickling or freezing. Dried peppers may be reconstituted whole, or processed into flakes or powders. Pickled or marinated peppers are frequently added to sandwiches or salads. Frozen peppers are used in stews and soups. Extracts can be made and incorporated into hot sauces.

Chili peppers are of great importance in Native American medicine, and capsaicin is used in modern medicine—mainly in topical medications—as a circulatory stimulant and analgesic. In more recent times, an aerosol extract of capsaicin, usually known as capsicum or pepper spray, has become widely used by police forces as a non-lethal means of incapacitating a person, and in a more widely dispersed form for riot control, or by individuals for personal defense.

Although black pepper and Sichuan pepper cause similar burning sensations, they are caused by different substances—piperine and hydroxy-alpha sanshool, respectively.

C. frutescens and C. annum are extensively used as vegetable.

C. frutescens has medicinal purpose as well.

Capsicum has been used for decades as a catalyst for other herbs. Because capsicum stimulates circulation and enhances blood flow, it is considered good for the circulatory system, a common condiment to the diet.

As a cardiovascular stimulant, Capsicum assists in lowering blood pressure and breaking down cholesterol build-up.

The warming properties of Capsicum are useful for people suffering from blood circulation to the hands and feet and the other related conditions,

Capsicum has been used as a digestive aid to ease intestinal inflammation, stimulate protective mucus membranes of the stomach, and also relieve the pain caused by ulcers.

Capsicum is commonly used to buffer pain from other ailments, including arthritis, varicose veins, headaches, menstrual cramps and respiratory conditions such as asthma.

Capsaicin is a chemical found in hot peppers that has the ability to block the nerves involved in bladder spasticity and subsequently, reduce its pressure.

A chemical in chili peppers can stop skin cancer. A little hot spice may help to cure cancer. Capsaicin and similar chemicals found in chili peppers may cause cancer cells to commit suicide.

Scientist believed the pepper solution causes tumor cells to self-destruct by starving them of oxygen.

Datura ^{[3] [6]}

Datura is a genus of nine species of vespertine flowering plants belonging to the family Solanaceae. Its precise and natural distribution is uncertain. All the species of Datura are poisonous however D. fastuosa has much poisonous properties. All the parts of the plant contain the active components but it is the leaves and seeds which are most often used medically.

The active alkaloids are hyoscyamine, atropine and scopolamine.

D. stramonium has well known and proven properties, which include being antispasmodic and anti-asthmatic. It is a hallucinogenic produces delirium and death. Other effects include the dilated pupils and airways, increased heart rate and dry mouth. The most common medical use of the plant has always been the treatment of asthma. It seems the leaves have long been smoked for that purpose by native people. Datura was known to the ancient Hindu physicians who regarded it as Intoxicant, emetic, digestive and heating.

The whole plant is considered as narcotic, anodyne and antispasmodic. It has properties analogous to those of A. belladonna. Seed is considered to have strong aphrodisiac effect. According to Ayurveda, seeds are acrid, bitter, tonic, febrifuge, anthelmintic, alexiteric, emetic and useful in leucoderma, skin disorders, ulcers, bronchitis, jaundice and piles.

Dried leaves, flowering tops and seeds are used in indigenous medicine for the treatment of asthma. Leaves and seeds posses narcotic properties and sometimes used for criminal poisoning Datura leaves are an integrated part of herbal cigarettes available in Indian market. Alkaloid atropine is used as stimulant for central nervous system and in form of sulphate, to dilate the pupil. Datura belongs to the classic “witches” weeds,” along with deadly nightshade, henbane and mandrake. Most parts of the plant contain toxic hallucinogens, and Datura has a long history of use for causing delirious states and death.

All datura plants contain tropane alkaloids such as scopolamine, hyoscymine, and atropine, primary in their seeds and flowers. Because of the presence of these substances, Datura has been used for centuries in some cultures as a poison and hallucinogen. Datura has been a popular poison for suicide and murder.

Due to the potent combination of anticholinergic substances it contains, Datura intoxications typically produces effects similar to that of an anticholinergic delirium : a complete inability to differentiate reality from fantasy, hyperthermia, bizarre, tachycardia and possibly violent behaviour and serve mydriasis with resultant painful photophobia that can last several days.

Pronounced amnesia is another commonly reported effect. Due to their confused mental state, victims of Datura poisoning are typically hospitalized. Gastric lavage and the administration of activated charcoal can be used to reduce the stomach’s absorption of the ingested material. The drug physostigmine is used to reverse the effect of the poison. Benzodiazepines can be given to cure the patient’s agitation, and supportive care with oxygen, hydration and symptomatic treatment is often provided.

Withania ^{[3] [6]}

There are about twenty species from this genera.

W. somnifera, W. coagulans and W. simonii are extremely important from medicinal point of view.

They are being used as one of the important ingredient in Ayurvedic and Unani recipes.

W. somnifera also known as Ashwagandha is one of the most widespread tranquillizers. The species name somnifera means “sleep inducing” in Latin, indicating that to it are attributed sedating properties but it has been also used for sexual vitality and as an adaptogen.

It has been traditionally used for the Ayurvedic systems as aphrodisiac, diuretics, for treating memory loss. It acts mainly on the reproductive and nervous system, having a rejuvenate effect on the body, and is used to improve vitality and aid recovery after chronic illness.

The fruits and seeds are diuretic in nature.

The medicine prepared out of its leaves is used for curing inflammation of tubercular glands and that of its root for curing skin diseases, anticancer, bronchitis and ulcers.

Whole plant, but especially the leaves and the root bark, are antibiotic, aphrodisiac, diuretic, narcotic, strongly sedative and tonic.

The active constituents are alkaloids and steroidal lactones. Among the various alkaloids, withanine is the main constituent. The other alkaloids are somniferine, somnine, somniferinine, withananine, tropine, pseudo withanine, pseudo tropine, cuscohygrine, anaferine and anhydrine.

Externally it has been applied as a poultice to boils, swelling and other painful parts.

W. coagulans is used to treat nervous exhaustion, debility, insomnia, wasting diseases, failure to thrive in children impotence, infertility, multiple sclerosis, etc.

Its fruits are used in treatment of diabetes. Some caution is advised in the use of these plants since it is toxic.

Hyoscyamus ^{[3] [7]}

Hyoscyamus is a small genus of flowering plants in the nightshade family, Solanaceae. The eleven species it contains are known generally as the henbanes.

Selected species

Ø Hyoscyamus albus L. – White Henbane

Ø Hyoscyamus aureus L. – Golden Henbane

Ø Hyoscyamus muticus L. – Egyptian Henbane

Ø Hyoscyamus niger L. – Black Henbane

Ø Hyoscyamus pusillus L.

Ø Hyoscyamus reticulatus L.

It is medicinally important genus of family Solanaceae.

All the parts of the plant contain alkaloid, hyoscymine, a small quantity of hyoscine or scopolamine and atropine.

The roots are richer in alkaloid than the seeds. The latter contains more bitter glucose hyosipicirin, choline, a waxy material hyosterol, phytosterol and other substances.

Leaves of the species are a source of drug, which is used as sedative, narcotic and also in treatment of asthma and whooping cough.

Henbane (Hyoscyamus niger, also known as stinking nightshade), is a plant of the family Solanaceae that originated in Eurasia, though it is now globally distributed.

H. niger is used as cerebral and spinal sedative.

These species do not give rise to the excitation caused by belladonna; therefore it can be used in insomnia when opium cannot be given.

The intake of small doses of henbane has a soothing effect, but in large doses it causes poisoning accompanied by severe excitation.

It was historically used in combination with other plants, such as mandrake, deadly nightshade, and datura as an anaesthetic potion, as well as for its psychoactive properties in "magic brews."

These psychoactive properties include visual hallucinations and a sensation of flight. Its usage was originally in continental Europe, Asia and the Arabic world, though it did spread to England in the middle Ages. The use of Henbane by the ancient Greeks was documented by Pliny. Henbane can be toxic, even fatal, to animals in low doses. The origins of the word are unclear but "hen" probably originally meant death rather than referring to chickens.

Hyoscyamine, scopolamine, and other tropane alkaloids have been found in the foliage and seeds of the plant. Common effects of henbane ingestion in humans include hallucinations, dilated pupils, restlessness, and flushed skin. Less common symptoms such as tachycardia, convulsions, vomiting, hypertension, hyperpyrexia and ataxia have all been noted.

Not all animals are susceptible; the larvae of some Lepidoptera species including Cabbage Moth eat henbane.

H. pusillus and H. niger relieve the griping caused by drastic purgatives.

In the middle ages, it was used as an anesthetic in surgical operations.

Nicotiana ^{[5] [7]}

N. tobacum, or cultivated tobacco, is a perennial herbaceous plant. Research is ongoing into its ancestry among wild Nicotiana species, but it is believed to be a hybrid of Nicotiana sylvestris, Nicotiana tomentosiformis, and possibly Nicotiana otophora.

Tobacco contains Nicotine, Anabasine (an alkaloid similar to the nicotine but less active), Glucosides (tabacinine, tabacine), 2,3,6-Trimethyl-1,4-naphthoquinone, 2-Methylquinone, 2-Napthylamine, Propionic acid, Anatalline, Anthalin, Anethole, Acrolein, Anatabine, Cembrene, Choline, Nicotelline, Nicotianine, Pyrene.

The most prominent phytochemical found in N. tobacum is nicotine. Nicotine binds stereo specifically to acetylcholine receptors at the autonomic ganglia, adrenal medulla, neuromuscular junctions and the brain. As consequence of the stimulation of nicotinic receptors, possibly located on presynaptic sites, short-term exposure to nicotine results in the activation of several central nervous system neurohumoral pathways, leading to the release of acetylcholine, nor epinephrine, dopamine, serotonin, vasopressin, growth hormone, and ACTH.

Most of the effects of nicotine on the central nervous system are due to the direct action on brain receptors, although activation of the brain through afferent nerves of chemoreceptors in the carotid bodies or the lung may also contribute. Nicotine excites nicotinic receptors in the spinal cord, autonomic ganglia, and adrenal medulla, the last of which causes the release of epinephrine. Nicotine evokes the release of catecholamines and facilitates the release of electrical stimulation-evoked neurotransmitters from sympathetic nerves in blood vessels.

At very low doses, similar to those seen during cigarette smoking, the cardiovascular effects appear to be mediated by the central nervous system, either through the activation of chemoreceptor afferent pathways or by direct effects on the brain stem.

The net result is sympathetic neural discharge, with an increase in blood pressure and heart rate. At higher doses, nicotine may act directly on the peripheral nervous system, producing ganglionic stimulation and the release of adrenal catecholamines. At extremely high doses, nicotine produces hypotension and slowing of the heart rate, mediated by either peripheral ganglionic blockade, vagal afferent nerve stimulation, or direct depressor effects mediated by action on the brain.

Tobacco has been used as an antispasmodic, a diuretic, an emetic, an expectorant, a sedative, and a sialagogue, and in homeopathy.

The leaves act as antispasmodics, discutients, diuretics, emetics, expectorants, irritants, sedatives and sialagogues. They are used externally in the treatment of rheumatic swelling, skin diseases and scorpion stings. The plant should be used with great caution, when taken internally it is addictive. The active ingredients can also be absorbed through the skin. Wet tobacco leaves can be applied to stings in order to relieve the pain. They are also a certain cure for painful piles.

A homeopathic remedy is made from the dried leaves. It is used in the treatment of nausea and travel sickness. Some other activities reported for Nicotiana tabacum are: Analgesic activity, anesthetic activity, angiogenesis inhibition, antibacterial activity, anti convulsant activities, anti estrogenic effect, antifungal activity, antiglaucomic activity, antioxidant activity, antistress effect, antiviral activity, aromatase inhibition, arrhythmogenic effect, carcinogenic activity, bronchoconstrictor activity, bupivacaine kinetics.

All parts of the plant contain nicotine, which has been extracted and used as an insecticide. The dried leaves can also be used, they remain effective for 6 months after drying. The juice of the leaves can be rubbed on the body as an insect repellent. The leaves have been dried and chewed as an intoxicant. The dried leaves are also used as snuff or smoked. This is the main species that is used to make cigarettes and cigars. A drying oil is obtained from the seed.

Curing and aging:

After tobacco is harvested, it is cured (dried), and then aged to improve its flavor. There are four common methods of curing tobacco: air curing, fire curing, flue curing, and sun curing. The curing method used depends on the type of tobacco and its intended use. Air-cured tobacco is sheltered from wind and sun in a well-ventilated barn, where it air dries for six to eight weeks. Air-cured tobacco is low in sugar, which gives the tobacco smoke a light, sweet flavor, and high in nicotine. Cigar and burley tobaccos are air cured.

Miscellaneous ^{[2] [7]}

Mandrake (plant):

Mandrake is the common name for members of the plant genus Mandragora belonging to the nightshades family (Solanaceae). Because mandrake contains deliriant hallucinogenic tropane alkaloids such as hyoscyamine, It is slightly narcotic, and an aphrodisiacal virtue was ascribed to it by the ancients,

It was a common folklore in some countries In Germany, the plant is known as the Alraune: the novel (later adapted as a film) In the Song of Songs, it is used as a symbol of fragrance:

Ø Shakespeare refers four times to mandrake and twice under the name of mandragora.

Ø In J. K. Rowling's Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets, the mandrake root is cultivated by Professor Sprout to cure the petrification of several characters who had looked indirectly into the eyes of the Basilisk; the author makes use of the legend of the mandrake's scream and anyone tending mandrakes wears earmuffs to dull the sound of the scream, if the plant must be transplanted.

Wolfberry:

Wolfberry, commercially called goji berry, is the common name for the fruit of two very closely related species: Lycium barbarum and L. chinense. It is also known as Chinese wolfberry, mede berry, barbary matrimony vine. As a food, dried wolfberries are traditionally cooked before consumption.

Published studies have also reported possible medicinal benefits of Lycium barbarum, especially due to its antioxidant properties, including potential benefits against cardiovascular and inflammatory diseases, vision-related diseases (such as age-related macular degeneration and glaucoma, having neuroprotective properties or as an anticancer and immunomodulatory agent.

A glucopyranoside and phenolic amides isolated from wolfberry root bark have inhibitory activity in vitro against human pathogenic bacteria and fungi.

Atropine, a toxic alkaloid found in other members of the Solanaceae family, occurs naturally in wolfberry fruit.

Wolfberry contains significant percentages of a day's macronutrient needs – carbohydrates, protein, fat and dietary fiber. 68% of the mass of dried wolfberries exists as carbohydrate, 12% as protein, and 10% each as fiber and fat, giving a total caloric value in a 100 gram serving of 370 (kilo) calories.

Wolfberries contain many nutrients and phytochemicals including:

11 essential and 22 trace dietary minerals, 18 amino acids, 6 essential vitamins, 8 polysaccharides and 6 monosaccharides, 5 unsaturated fatty acids; including the essential fatty acids, linoleic acid and alpha-linolenic acid, beta-sitosterol and other phytosterols, 5 carotenoids, including beta-carotene and zeaxanthin (below), lutein, lycopene and cryptoxanthin, a xanthophylls, numerous phenolic pigments (phenols) associated with antioxidant properties.

Brunfelsi:

Brunfelsia is a genus of about 40 species of neotropical shrubs and small trees.

Species in cultivation include B. americana ("lady of the night") and B. pauciflora. The cultivated plant is commonly called “yesterday, today and tommorow” due to its color changes.

Many members of this genus contain toxic and medicinal alkaloids. B. grandiflora is used by curanderos in South America as an additive to ayahuasca and contains the psychoactive alkaloid scopoletin. Brunfelsia hopeana contains the alkaloid hopeanine.

Anthocercis:

Anthocercis, commonly known as Tailflower, is a genus of shrubs which are endemic in southern temperate Australia. All species of Anthocercis contain tropane alkaloids, and have occasionally caused poisoning in children or suspected of poisoning stock. Anthocercis is known as the only Solanaceous plant known to produce resin compounds on glandular trichomes.

Species:

Ø Anthocercis angustifolia F.Muell.

Ø Anthocercis anisantha Endl.

Ø Anthocercis aromatica C.A.Gardner

Ø Anthocercis fasciculata F.Muell.

Ø Anthocercis genistoides Miers

Brugmansia:

Brugmansia is a genus of seven species of flowering plants in the family Solanaceae

Ø Brugmansia arborea. Andes

Ø Brugmansia aurea. Andes

Ø Brugmansia insignis.

Ø Brugmansia sanguinea. Andes

Ø Brugmansia suaveolens.

Ø Brugmansia versicolor

Ø Brugmansia vulcanicola.

All parts of Brugmansia plants contain dangerous levels of poison and may be fatal if in gested by humans or animals, including livestock and pets. Contact with the eyes can cause pupil dilation (mydriasis) or unequal pupil size (anisocoria).

Duboisia:

Duboisia (commonly called Corkwood Tree) is a genus of small perennial shrub. There are four species; all occur in Australia, and one also occurs in New Caledonia.

The nicotine, scopolamine and hyoscyamine-containing leaves of Duboisia are the active component of the drug pituri, used by indigenous peoples of central Australia for its stimulant, euphoric, antispasmodic and analgesic effects.

The leaves of D. leichhardtii and D. myoporoides also contain scopolamine and hyoscyamine, along with some other pharmaceutically important alkaloids. A derivative of scopolamine is the main active ingredient of the drug butylscopolamine, a potent antispasmodic and analgesic. These trees are commercially grown for the pharmaceutical industry.

D. myoporoides:

The leaves are a commercial source of pharmaceutically useful alkaloids. The same alkaloids render all plant parts poisonous. The leaves contain a number of alkaloids, including hyoscine (scopolamine), used for treating motion sickness, stomach disorders, and the side effects of cancer therapy.

Iochroma:

Iochroma is a genus of about 24 species of shrubs

Iochromas are cultivated as flowering ornamentals and in cooler zones

Like many plants in the Solanaceae, Iochroma species contain phytochemicals with potential pharmaceutical value but the genus has not been exhaustively studied in this respect.

The genus Iochroma is not completely known. Several of the species listed here are known to have resulted from hybridisation in the wild.

Ø Iochroma albianthum S. Leiva

Ø Iochroma australe Grisebach

Ø Iochroma ayabacense S. Leiva

Ø Iochroma calycinum Bentham

Ø Iochroma confertiflorum (Miers) Hunziker

Ø Iochroma cornifolium Miers

Boxthorn:

Boxthorn (Lycium) is a genus of the nightshade family (Solanaceae), containing about 90 species of plants.The plant has been known to European herbalists since ancient times and boxthorn as a medicinal plant recommended as a treatment for sore eyes and inflammation.

Selected species:

Ø L. afrum,

Ø L. barbarum,

Ø L. europaeum

Cestrum:

Cestrum is a genus of 150-250 species of flowering plants in the family solanaceae. Several species are grown as ornamental plants for their strongly scented flowers. Some species can cause serious losses to livestock.

C. nocturnuma:

Cestrum nocturnum is a species of Cestrum, Common names include Night-blooming Cestrum, Lady of the Night, Queen of the Night, Night-blooming Jessamine, and Night-blooming Jasmine."Hasnuhana" is another popular name for the plant. Also known as Raat ki Rani.

Nicandra:

Nicandra is a monotypic genus of flowering plants in the nightshade family containing the single species N. physaloides. It is known by the common names Apple of Peru and shoo-fly plant. It is also kept as an ornamental plant. The plant is thought to have insect repellent properties.

Physalis:

Physalis is a genus of plants in the nightshade family (Solanaceae), The genus is characterized by the small orange fruit similar in size, shape and structure to a small tomato. One name for Physalis peruviana is Cape gooseberry

Physalis fruit have around 53 kcal for 100 grams and are rich in cryptoxanthin.

Its uses are similar to the common tomato or to fruits with a refreshing taste. Once extracted from its husk, it may be eaten raw or used in salads, desserts, as a flavoring, and in jams and jellies. They can also be dried and eaten much like raisins or other small dried fruit.

In Chinese medicine, the Physalis is used as a remedy for abscesses, coughs, fevers and sore throats, among others.

Smooth groundcherry (P. subglabrata) is considered a hallucinogenic plant.

Scopolia:

Scopolia is a genus of five species of flowering plants in the family Solanaceae, The extract is an anti-spasmodic in low doses and may be used to relax smooth muscle tissue or prevent motion-sickness induced nausea; in higher doses it is a poisonous narcotic having hallucinogenic and memory-inhibiting effects. Other alkaloids found in S. carniolica include cuscohygrine and hysocyamine. Alkaloids found in

S. tangutica include hysocyamine, scopolamine, anisodamine, and anisodine.

CONCLUSION:

As discussed above, it seems that Solanaceae families contains a diverse range of alkaloids and include Scopolamine, Atropine and hyoscyamine. These are the key alkaloids of this family. Presences of these alkaloids make this family medicinally important.

Pharmacologically, these are the most powerful known anticholinergics acting on parasympathetic nervous system. But, though they are therapeutically parasymapathomimetics; overdose may include various adverse effects like mouth dryness, dilated pupils, ataxia, urinary retention, hallucinations, convulsions, coma and death.

So, dose should be strictly decided and monitored. Despite the extreme toxicity of the tropanes, they are important drugs when administered in appropriate dosages.

REFERENCES:

1. Dr. Ansari S. H.; Essentials of Pharmacognosy, 1st edition, 2005-06, Pg. no. 448-456

2. www.wikipaedia.com/solanaceae drugs, (Accessed 12th march, 2012 10:32 am)

3. www.herbaldrugs/review of literature, (Accessed 19th march, 2012 11:52 am)

4. Gokhale G. K., Purohit A. P.; Pharmacognosy, 21st edition, 2002, Pg. no. 483-493

5. Tripathi K. D.; Essentials of Medical Pharmacology, 5th edition, 2004, Pg no. 93-100

6. www.wikipaedia.com/solanaceae drug/ Anticholinergics, (Accessed 25th march, 2012 04:15 pm)

7. www.wikipaedia.com/solanaceae drugs, (Accessed 2nd April, 2012 06:00 pm)

Received on 18.12.2012 Modified on 01.01.2013

Research J. Pharm. and Tech. 6(2): Feb. 2013; Page 143-151