Solanum anguivi (gnangnan) as a functional food: A natural approach to hypertension management in rats

Hypertension poses a significant challenge to global health, particularly in regions with limited access to conventional treatments. Solanum anguivi, locally known as gnangnan, is a neglected wild edible plant that has been used in traditional Ivorian medicine. This study investigated the antihypertensive effects of freeze-dried Solanum anguivi fruit powder in Wistar rats with fructose- and salt-induced hypertension. The rats were divided into four groups: a healthy control group; a hypertensive control group; a group of hypertensive rats treated with 200 mg/kg of Solanum anguivi powder; and a group of hypertensive rats treated with nifedipine. Phytochemical analyses revealed high levels of polyphenols, flavonoids and tannins, as well as significant antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities. Treatment with Solanum anguivi significantly reduced both systolic and diastolic blood pressure, with comparable effects to those of nifedipine. No signs of renal or hepatic toxicity were observed. A notable increase in platelet count and stable body mass suggest good tolerance. Histological analyses confirmed the absence of organ damage. These findings highlight the potential of Solanum anguivi powder as a functional food or adjunctive phytotherapeutic agent for managing hypertension.