Introduction and Aim: Solanum pubescens (S. pubescens) is well known for its therapeutic proprieties. The current study aimed to conduct phytochemical analyses of various S. pubescens fruit extracts and search for anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidant activities.
Materials and Methods: Qualitative and quantitative phytochemical analyses, In vitro anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activities of Solanum pubescens fruit FHE, FAE1, FAE2, FEE, and FWE extracts at different concentrations (100-500µg/ml) was carried out using standard assays.
Results: Phytochemical studies revealed diverse types of phytoconstituents in different extracts. The FEE extract observed to be rich in phenolics, whereas the FAE2 and FAE1extract possessed a significant amount of total flavonoids, while the total tannin was found to be high in FEE. Total alkaloids are found in high amounts in FWE, whereas, FEE extract is rich in saponin and carbohydrates (Table-1). In vitro anti-inflammatory activities at various concentrations of 100-500µg/ml against heat induced hemolysis exhibiting 63.82±0.33%, while inhibition of protein denaturation assay revealed 69.63±0.91% activity. Cyclooxygenase and 5-lipoxygenase inhibitory assays showed significant activity of 65.59±1.46% and 74.32±1.68% respectively. Furthermore, in vitro antioxidant activity in DPPH radical scavenging, nitric oxide radicles (NOR), hydroxyl radicles (OH) and superoxide anion (SOR) radicle scavenging activities revealed 84.19±0.83%, 60.73±0.79%, 68.6±0.97% and 53.87±1.38% of inhibition respectively.
Conclusion: S. pubescens extracts are found to be rich in bioactive compounds, confirming their potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activities, and hence S. pubescens fruit extracts may serve as novel lead for anti-inflammatory compounds.