Review on Ethno-botany, Virucidal Activity, Phytochemistry and Toxicology of Solanum genus: Potential Bio-resources for the Therapeutic Management of Covid-19

Background and Aim: Condiment plants are not only a source of food, flavors or food additives but also antivirals. The aim of the present work consisted in compiling ethno-botanical, phytochemical, toxicological and biological activities literature data reported on some species of the Solanum genus, precisely their antiviral potential.

Methodology: The literature review was based mainly on the usual databases such as PubMed, PubMed Central, Science Direct, SCIELO, DOAJ, Science alert and Google scholar.

Results: The ethnobotanical studies show that Solanum species are used in traditional medicine for the treatment of several ailments, particularly those affecting the respiratory system. With regard to studies on their bioactivity, the literature indicates that the Solanum genus is full of species used in food and/or traditional medicine, in most cases presenting several biological properties such as antiviral potential. Among the viruses sensitive to extracts from Solanum species, are: Herpes virus type 1 or 2, viral hepatitis virus and HIV. Some phytochemical studies identified several compounds responsible for the antiviral activity, but polyphenolic compounds precisely glycoalkaloids have been shown to interact with SARS-CoV-2 protease such as quercetin, kaempferol and apigenin in some Solanum species (S. melongena, S. nigrum and S. torvum). Furthermore, the immunostimulant, haematopoietic or antioxidant potentials of some species of Solanum genus would be an asset for the management of Covid-19. There is little or no information in the literature on the toxicity of Solanum species used as food or drugs in traditional medicine.

Conclusion: The antiviral activity of Solanum species is linked to the presence of polyphenolic compounds. It is advisable to consume these Solanum species which are less toxic during this pandemic as they are considered to be nutraceuticals. Molecular docking study of the interaction of these compounds with SARS-CoV-2 protease is in progress.