A DETAILED REVIEW ON SOLANACEAE FAMILY

R. Yadav*, M. Rathi, A. Pednekar and Y. Rewachandani

ABSTRACT

This family is called as nightshades family which is a family of flowering plants. Present review covers 25 important genus and important species in respective genus. The most economically important genus of the family is Solanum. Most members of the Solanaceae are erect or climbing, annual or perennial herbs, but shrubs are not uncommon and there are a few trees Eight genera, Solanum, Lycianthes, Cestrum, Nolana, Physalis, Lycium, Nicotiana, Brunfelsia contain more than 60% of the species. Many members of the family contain potent alkaloids, and some are highly toxic, but many cultures eat nightshades, in some cases as staple foods. The tropanes are the most well-known of the alkaloids found in the Solanaceae. Besides this scopolamine, atropine, hyoscyamine, and nicotine are also present. Members of Solanaceae provide a variety of culinary, medicinal, and ornamental values. The major activity shown by most of the species is poisoning and psychotropic activity.

Keywords: Solanaceae, nightshades, solanum, alkaloids, hyoscyamine.