bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Pharmacological investigations of Hibiscus micranthus Linn., a febrifuge used in Saudi Arabian folk medicine
Authors: Al‐Yahya M. A. , Tariq M. , Parmar N. S. , Ageel A. M.
Published: October 2006

The ethanolic extract of Hibiscus micranthus Linn. has been studied for its pharmacological activities. It has been found to produce significant inhibition of carrageenan induced paw oedema and cotton pellet induced granuloma pouch in rats and significant reduction in yeast induced hyperpyrexia in mice. It failed to produce any analgesic activity on the hot plate reaction time test in mice. On the hematological and biochemical parameters it produced a significant prolongation of prothrombin time, a decrease in the fibrinogen content and marked hyperglycemia in rats. It also produced significant neuromuscular blocking activity on both the models used in this study. Apart from these, it exhibited slight inotropic and chronotropic effects on isolated rabbit heart and a mild CNS stimulant effect. Further studies on the isolation of its active phytoconstituents and their pharmacological actions are being undertaken.
Estrogenic and anticonceptive activity of a petroleum ether soluble fraction of Malvaviscus conzattii Greenum flowers in female rats
Authors: Bhargava S. K.
Published: October 2006

A petroleum ether soluble fraction Fr. III isolated from the benzene extract of Malvaviscus conzattii Greenum flowers and administered orally to adult female rats at the doses of 10, 20 and 40 mg/rat from day 1 to day 5 of pregnancy showed 50%, 60% and 80% anti‐implantation, as well as 60%, 80% and 100% anticonceptive activity in the treated animals, respectively. There was a dose dependent termination of pregnancy and reduction in the number of implantation sites. In ovariectomized young female rats, the Fr. III exhibited estrogenic activity at comparable anticonceptive doses, but was devoid of antiestrogenic activity. Fr. III seems to possess a weak estrogenic activity in that a significant uterotrophic effect was discerned even at 1/16th of the anticonceptive dose.
In vitro cytotoxicity testing of natural products using guinea‐pig ear keratinocytes
Authors: Harris Ann , Keene Alison T. , Phillipson J. David , Warhurst David C.
Published: October 2006

A simple test is described in which the inhibition of uptake of [G‐3H]thymidine into guinea‐pig ear keratinocytes in vitro, has been used as an assessment for cytotoxicity of a series of alkaloids. The alkaloids tested include emetine, colchicine, coronaridine, ajmaline, aricine, vincristine, leurosine, quinamine, 3‐epiquinamine, quinine, quinidinone, cichonidine, berberine and atropine.
Inhibition of adjuvant arthritis in the rat and pinnal inflammation in the mouse by an extract of Hymenocardia acida
Authors: Sackeyfio A. C.
Published: October 2006

Hymenocardia acida TUL, a shrub belonging to the family Euphorbiaceae, has been investigated for anti‐inflammatory activity in the rat and mouse. Various parts of the plant are claimed by practitioners of herbal medicine in some West African countries to be effective remedies for inflammation of tissues. Two experimental models of inflammation were used in the study. In rat adjuvant arthritis, the orally administered aqueous extract of the stem bark of H. acida (10–20 mg/kg) inhibited both the acute and chronic phases of the reaction in a dose‐related manner, producing inhibition of the magnitude of 37.4–70.2%. Similarly, in the anaphylactic mouse pinnal inflammation model, the orally administered extract (10–40 mg/kg) inhibited the reaction to a magnitude of 6.5–68.2%. In both models, indomethacin, a cyclo‐oxygenase inhibitor, also exhibited inhibitory effects and in the mouse pinnal model the glucocortico‐steroid, hydrocortisone, also produced inhibition. The extract of H. acida used in this study was coloured brown and, on that basis, could contain plant phenolics. H. acida may belong to a class of plant drugs which produce inhibition of phospholipid–arachidonic acid metabolism due to their phenolic constituents.
Chemical constituents of Rhamnus procumbens and pharmacological actions of emodin
Authors: Dwivedi S. P. D. , Pandey V. B. , Shah A. H. , Rao Y. B.
Published: October 2006

Musizin, physcon, emodin and frangulin‐A have been isolated from the whole plant of Rhamnus procumbens and their structures established by a detailed study of spectral data and also by degradation methods. Pharmacological investigations on emodin have indicated that it possesses intestinal and cardiac stimulant, CNS depressant and analgesic activities. Such activities have not earlier been reported for emodin. This is also the first report of the isolation of these chemical constituents in Rhamnus procumbensf and the second natural occurrence of musizin.
Molluscicidal activities of Dysoxylum lenticellare gillespie constituents on Biomphalaria glabrata say
Authors: Adewunmi C. O. , Aladesanmi A. J.
Published: October 2006

Four alkaloids, dyshomerythrine (2), 3‐epischelhammericine (6), 2,7‐dihydrohomoerysotrine (7); and 3‐epi‐12‐hydroxyschelhammericine (8); two 1‐phenylethylisoquinoline, homolaudanosine (9) and dysoxyline (10); a novel alkaloid, dysazecine (3); two diterpenes, 8β‐hydroxysandaracopimar‐15‐ene (1) and phyllocladene (5) and p‐hydroxyacetophenone (4) isolated from the leaves of Dysoxylum lenticellare have been tested against Biomphalaria glabrata and found to possess molluscicidal activity. p‐hydroxyacetophenone (4) demonstrated high molluscicidal activity. An increase in the methoxy groupings increased the activity of the alkaloids whilst the disruption of the carbon skeleton decreased activity. All the compounds tested possessed cardiodepressant activities on the heart of B. glabrata.
HPLC‐analysis of the volatile oil of garlic bulbs
Authors: Miething Holger
Published: October 2006

A HPLC‐analysis using the photodiode‐array detection technique of the volatile oil of garlic bulbs is presented. Self‐distilled garlic‐oils from six various origins showed similar fingerprint chromatograms with diallyl trisulphide as main compound. Three investigated commercial oils contained significantly higher amounts of diallyl disulphide.
Anti‐ulcerogenicity of the flavonoid fraction from Dittrichia viscosa (L.) W. Greuter in rats
Authors: Martin M. J. , de la Lastra C. Alarcón , Marhuenda E. , Delgado F. , Torreblanca J.
Published: October 2006

The anti‐ulcer activity of extracts from Dittrichia viscosa (L.) W. Greuter by means of different experimental gastric ulcer models was investigated. The results of this report indicate that the antiulcerogenic effect of Dittrichia viscosa lies mainly in its flavonoid fraction (the etheral extract, 1,14%), which afforded the predominant flavonoid, quercetin. This flavonol exercised a significant curative effect mainly in prolonged treatment of induced ulcers in rats.
Spasmolytic action of the essential oil of Thymus longiflorus Boiss in rats
Authors: Zarzuelo A. , Cabo M. M. , Cruz T. , Jimenez J.
Published: October 2006

The spasmolytic activity of the essential oil of Thymus longiflorus Boiss was investigated in an attempt to identify the component or components responsible for such action. The essential oil was found to present a marked spasmolytic activity against acetylcholine via a non‐competitive type of antagonism, attributable mainly to the terpenic fraction, particularly the presence of a‐pinene and camphene.
Effect of Padma 28 on ascorbate system in rats receiving a high‐fat diet
Authors: Wójcicki J. , Gonet B. , Samochowiec L. , Gnacińska K. , Juzwiak S.
Published: October 2006

In this study the effect of Padma 28 on the level of ascorbate free radicals and lipids in animals receiving a high‐fat diet (HFD) was measured. Male Wistar rats were divided into four groups: (I) controls, (II) animals given HFD containing cholesterol and coconut oil, (III) rats treated with Padma 28, (IV) HFD + Padma 28, over a period of 14 days. Electron spin resonance (ESR) spectra, corresponding to ascorbate free radicals, were measured from samples of the whole blood. The number of these radicals was significantly increased in animals of group IV (HFD + Padma 28), whilst the elevation of serum cholesterol, triglyceride and β‐lipoproteins was in this group significantly suppressed; HDL cholesterol content was normalized.
Evaluation of the effects of low concentrations of aridanin isolated from Tetrapleura tetraptera Taub. (Mimosaceae) on the growth and egg production of Biomphalaria glabrata say and Lymnaea columella say
Authors: Adewunmi Clement O. , Furu Peter , Madsen Henry
Published: October 2006

The effects of low concentrations of aridanin (0.125, 0.25, 0.5, and 1.0 ppm) on the growth and egg production of Biomphalaria glabrata and Lymnaea columella were compared with the effects of low concentrations of niclosamide (0.025, 0.05, and 0.10 ppm). Aridanin and niclosamide caused significant reduction in the egg production and growth of B. glabrata and L. columella, indicating that aridanin has a potential use in schistosomiasis control if used in slow‐release formulations. The poor chemical stability of aridanin in dear water suggests that its effectiveness as a molluscicide in the field will depend on the speed of its destructive action on snails.
Macrophage chemiluminescence modulated by Chinese medicinal herbs Astragalus membranaceus and Ligustrum lucidum
Authors: Lau Benjamin H. S. , Ong Peck , Tosk Jeff
Published: October 2006

This study determined the effects of two Chinese medicinal herbs, Astragalus membranaceus (AM) and Ligustrum lucidum (LL), on chemiluminescent oxidative burst as an indicator of phagocytic function in a murine macrophage cell line J774. J774 cells were incubated with the aqueous herbal extract for 18 h at 37d̀C and 5% CO2. Chemiluminescent oxidative burst was triggered by adding a zymosan A suspension containing luminol and assayed in an automated luminometer. Significant dose‐related augmentation of chemiluminescence occurred with either AM or LL alone. A synergistic augmentation was obtained when the extracts were combined. The combined extract also significantly inhibited the growth of an experimental transitional cell carcinoma in mice. The results of this study indicate that these Chinese medicinal herbs may play a significant role in modulating host defense mechanisms.
Effect of Terminalia arjuna extract on KCl induced contractions in the rat vas deferens
Authors: Tripathi Yamini B. , Tripathi V. , Tripathi P.
Published: October 2006

Experiments were carried out to elucidate the effects of extracts from Terminalia arjuna on potassium chloride (160 mM) induced contraction in smooth muscle. The petroleum ether extract did not exhibit a response, whereas the preincubation of tissue with the alcoholic extract inhibited contraction. Experimental approaches, described here, lead to the speculation that T. arjuna may impart its action through the modulation of Ca2+ ions across the cellular membrane.
Effect of some hypoglycemic glycans on glucose uptake and glucose metabolism by inverted intestinal fragments
Authors: Perl Meir , Hikino Hiroshi
Published: October 2006

Polysaccharides which lowered blood glucose concentration in vivo, were examined for their effects on glucose uptake and glucose oxidation by inverted intestinal fragments of rats. The examined polysaccharides exhibited dose‐dependent stimulations of glucose oxidation (CO2 release) between 75 and 300 μg/ml incubation mixture. The effects increased to maximal values, as compared to the control at external glucose concentrations of 0.06‐0.25 mM (depending on the glycan), after which inhibitory trends were observed. No effect on the rate of glucose uptake could be observed.
In vitro activity of natural products against the trypomastigote form of Trypanosoma cruzi
Authors: González J. , Sagua H. , Araya J. , Loyola A. , Morales G. , Pereira J. , Estrada M.
Published: October 2006

The activities of isolated compounds and crude extracts from species of the autochthonous flora of the North of Chile, were evaluated against Trypanosoma cruzi trypomastigotes in vitro. A marked trypanocidal activity was observed for the chloroform, ethanol and methanol‐aqueous extracts of Gelidium pusilum (Gelidiacea). Similar activity was found in the chloroform extract of Miroglia grandis (Gigartinaceae) and in the methanol + water + chloroform extract of Bacharis boliviensis (Compositae). The most active extracts tested were p‐cumaroiloxitremethone isolated from Parestrephia quadrangularis and two terpenes from Bacharis boliviensis, not yet structurally elucidated (PN‐3 and PN‐59). The screen identifies natural products which are active against blood trypomastigotes in vitro at 4°C and which may be useful in preventing the transmission of Chagas' disease by blood transfusion.
Antimicrobial activity of juglone
Authors: Clark Alice M. , Jurgens Tannis M. , Hufford Charles D.
Published: October 2006

The juice of freshly macerated unripe hulls of the black walnut (Juglans nigra) has been used for many years in folk medicine as a treatment for localized, topical fungal infections such as ringworm. It has been proposed that the biological activity of the walnut hulls is due to the presence of the simple naphthoquinone, juglone (5‐hydroxy‐1,4‐naphthoquinone), which has been isolated from the unripe hulls by sublimation. Since the fresh juice of unripe walnut hulls is utilized for the treatment of ringworm, and since it has been speculated that the activity is due to the presence of juglone, it was of interest to determine the efficacy of juglone as compared to standard commercially available antifungal agents. The comparative efficacy was determined by evaluation of the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) values of juglone and the standard antifungal agents clotrimazole, triacetin, tolnaftate, griseofulvin, zinc undecylenate, selenium sulfide as well as two investigational antifungal antibiotics, liriodenine and liriodenine methiodide, for two dermatophytes, Trichophyton mentagrophytes and Microsporum gypseum. MIC values for juglone showed it to have moderate antifungal activity and to be as effective as certain commercially available antifungal agents such as zinc undecylenate and selenium sulfide.
In vitro antimalarial activity of crude extracts and compounds from Artemisia abrotanum L
Authors: Cubukcu B. , Bray D. H. , Warhurst D. C. , Mericli A. H. , Ozhatay N. , Sariyar G.
Published: October 2006

Artemisia abrotanum L. (Compositae) is widely used in European herbal medicine for treatment of various ailments including fever. Crude extracts of this plant and some of their constituents were tested for antimalarial activity against Plasmodium falciparum in vitro using the technique of [3H]hypoxanthine incorporation. Two pure compounds, isofraxidin and a novel sesquiterpene, 1(S*)‐hydroxy‐α‐bisabololoxide A acetate were found to be active (IC50 values of 7.95 and 5.09 m̈g/mL, respectively).
Extract of tobacco callus with antiglaucoma activity
Authors: Hodges Linda C. , Robinson George W. , Green Keith
Published: October 2006

We have isolated a high molecular weight compound from tobacco callus (Nicotiana tabacum) that is active in lowering intraocular pressure (IOP) when injected intravenously into rabbits. Extracts were made from 2‐week‐old callus and from callus maintained in culture for varying amounts of time. Extracts of new callus were tested for IOP‐lowering activity and analysed for carbohydrate, protein, amino acid composition, and uronic acid content. Initial studies showed these extracts to be very active, lowering IOP almost to the maximum at doses of 200 μg. Partial characterization of the crude extract indicated that it contained 22% protein, 12% neutral sugar, and 5% uronic acid by weight. Extracts from callus maintained in culture for 2 months showed marginal activity when tested at 200 μg per animal. The material was fractionated by gel permeation chromatography on Fractogel TSK HW 65F. Fractions from chromatography were analysed for neutral sugar, protein, neutral sugar composition, and uronic acid content. The composition of the active material resembles plant cell wall components of the pectic type.
Effect of ginsenoside Rg1 on insulin binding in mice liver and brain membranes
Authors: Tchilian Elma Z. , Zhelezarov Ilian E. , Hadjiivanova Christina I.
Published: October 2006

The effect of in vivo administration of ginsenoside Rg1 from Panax ginseng on insulin binding in liver and brain membranes of mice was studied. Ginsenoside Rg1 at a dose of 10mg/kg significantly increased [125]insulin binding in both tissues. The increase in insulin binding was related to an increase in the number of insulin receptors rather than to a change in the receptor affinity.
Effects of short‐term capsaicin treatment on formalin and nitrogen dioxide induced changes in lipid peroxidation and antioxidant enzyme system in rat lung
Authors: De Amit Krishna , Ghosh Jagat Jiban
Published: October 2006

Exposure of rats to formalin and nitrogen dioxide vapour caused a significant increase in values of the lung wet wt/dry wt ratio (oedema formation) and lipid peroxidation. These effects were not observed in rats treated with short‐term capsaicin, either before or after exposure to the two gases. This protective action of short‐term capsaicin treatment can possibly be linked with the strengthening of the pulmonary antioxidant enzyme defence system by capsaicin.
Antiinflammatory activity of sesquiterpene lactones from Artemisia barrelieri in rats
Authors: Zafra‐Polo M. C. , Blázquez M. A.
Published: October 2006

Three eudesmanolides, barrelierin (1), artemalin (2) and barrelin (3), isolated from aerial parts of Artemisia barrelieri, and desoxyvulgarin (4) obtained from barrelin by reduction with zinc and acetic acid, reduced carrageenan‐induced rat paw oedema. The results show that the α‐methylene γ‐lactone group is not essential for the antiinflammatory effect, but variations in the molecular structure of these sesquiterpene lactones may enhance or diminish the antiinflammatory effect.
Oligo‐ and macrocyclic diterpenes in thymelaeaceae and euphorbiaceae occurring and utilized in Yunnan (Southwest China) 1. Daphnane type diterpene esters from Daphne feddei
Authors: Dagang Wu , Sorg B. , Adolf W. , Seip E. H. , Hecker E.
Published: October 2006

From roots of the Chinese folk medical plant Daphne feddei Lévl. three Daphne factors F1, F2 and F3 have been isolated. They proved identical with the known daphnane type 9,13,14‐orthoesters huratoxin (F1), genkwadaphnin (F2) and with the known daphnane type 14‐ester prohuratoxin (F3). From stem bark of the plant a new factor F4 was obtained and identified as the 1,2‐dihydro derivative of the known daphnane type 9,13,14‐orthoester daphnetoxin. The factors F1–F4 exhibit moderate to strong irritant activity on the mouse ear. F4 assayed in the standard protocol 16 for tumor promoting activity on the back skin of mice was nearly inactive. Certain structure/activity relationships are pointed out along the conceptual idea to develop diterpene structures with diminished or abolished irritant and tumor promoting activities but retained immune stimulating, differentiating or otherwise antineoplastic activities.
Effects of naringenin and silymarin on urinary excretion of water and electrolytes in rats
Authors: Alarc de la Lastra C. Ón , Martín M. J. , Motilva V.
Published: October 2006

The effects of two flavonoid derivatives, naringenin and silymarin on urinary excretion of water and electrolytes were investigated in isotonic saline loaded rats. Both compounds, especially naringenin, showed a moderate diuretic activity, in comparison with furosemide, increasing significantly the renal loss of sodium, chloride and potassium. With respect to silymarin, although urinary excretion was significantly lower, it caused a marked decrease in potassium excretion. These results indicate that naringenin has a diuretic behaviour similar to moderate‐efficiency diuretic agents and silymarin to potassium‐sparing diuretics.
Characterization of a concentrated extract of Achyrocline satureioides as an intermediary product in the preparation of an ointment
Authors: Petrovick P. R. , Knorst M. T.
Published: October 2006

A. satureioides is reported to have antiinflammatory activity after oral and topical administration. The use of a concentrated extract as the raw material for the preparation of a plastic pharmaceutical dosage form is examined. Loss on drying, chromatographic evaluation of the major constituents and quantitative assay of quercetin were found to be adequate for characterizing the extract.
Quantitative analysis of the active constituents in green tea
Authors: Min Zhu , Peigen Xiao
Published: October 2006

Since green tea has been reported to exhibit the effects of promoting antitumour activity, antimutagenicty and antioxidation, we have analyzed its active components by high performance thin layer chromatography (HPTLC). It is suggested that drinking green tea at normal levels daily is not sufficient to produce pharmacological actions.
Effect of pollen extracts on prolonged poisoning of rats with organic solvents
Authors: Ceglecka M. , Wójcicki J. , Gonet B. , Put A. , Kuźna‐Grygiel W. , Samochowiec L.
Published: October 2006

Male Wistar rats were divided into four equal groups: (i) controls, (ii) animals exposed to organic solvents, (iii) animals exposed to organic solvents and receiving pollen extracts, (iv) rats given pollen extracts. The experiment lasted 3 months. The protective effect of pollen extracts against changes evoked by organic solvents was demonstrated. Pollen extracts inhibited or counteracted the elevation of aminotransferases and alkaline phosphatase activity and lipid and carbohydrate metabolism disturbances in the liver. The ascorbate system was improved. It is concluded, that pollen extracts are able to protect the liver against changes evoked by environmental influences.
Indigofera arrecta prevents the development of hyperglycaemia in the db/db mouse
Authors: Addy Marian E. , Addo Phyllis , Nyarko A. K.
Published: October 2006

Genetically obese diabetic and nondiabetic mice, and their lean littermates were used to evaluate an aqueous extract of Indigofera arrecta which is used for the treatment of diabetes. Control animals were given water instead of the extract over a 90 day period, and measurements of blood glucose and body weight were done at approximately 30‐day intervals. The development of hyperglycaemia associated with the diabetic mice over a time period was absent when the mice were on the extract. Blood glucose levels of littermates of both mutant strains, and the mild hyperglycaemia of the obese nondiabetic mice were not affected. The extract significantly lowered the body weight of both types of obese mutant mice but did not affect the body weight of the littermates.
Further studies on the antidiarrhoeal activity of bisnordihydrotoxiferine, a tertiary indole alkaloid in rodents
Authors: Thomas G. , de F. F. Melo Diniz M. , Mukherjee R.
Published: October 2006

The dimeric tertiary indole alkaloid bisnordihydrotoxiferine isolated from the root bark of Strychnos trinervis (Vell.) Mart. inhibited, on i.p. administration, Escherichia coli‐induced diarrhoea and cholera toxin‐stimulated intestinal fluid accumulation in mice. The respective ED50 values were 10.6 and 20.0 mg/kg. The activity of bisnordihydrotoxiferine was unaffected by nalorphine or yohimbine, suggesting that the opioid and α2‐adrenoceptors respectively, are not important for its antidiarrhoeal action. In smooth muscle studies, bisnordihydrotoxiferine antagonized in a noncompetitive and reversible manner, the contractions produced by histamine, acetylcholine and substance P in guinea‐pig ileum and by 5‐hydroxytryptamine and arachidonic acid in rat fundic strip. The respective pD'2 values (mean ± SEM) were 5.21 ± 0.29, 5.20 ± 0.29, 5.35 ± 0.12, in the ileum and 4.95 ± 0.13 and 3.66 ± 0.12 in the fundic strip. The values of slopes of the regression lines differed significantly from unity in all cases. Bisnor was inactive against PGE2‐induced contractions in the ileum. The mechanism of action of the alkaloid may be related to nonspecific antagonism of gastrointestinal smooth muscle stimulant activity of several endogenous substances.
Studies on the antiulcerogenic activity of the essential oil of Hyptis mutabilis Briq. in Rats
Authors: Barbosa P. P. P. , Ramos C. P.
Published: October 2006

The volatile oil of Hyptis mutabilis, Briq. was investigated for its ability to prevent or reduce the formation of ulcerations in the gastric mucosa of male rats induced by indomethacin subcutaneous injection. When previously administered (p.o. and i.p.) the oil (F1473; 50–100 mg/kg) significantly reduced gastric alterations produced by indomethacin in a dose‐dependent fashion. However, the mechanism of action of this plant oil is still unkown.
Pollen extracts reduce the hepatotoxicity of paracetamol in mice
Authors: Juźwiak S. , Raińska T. , Dutkiewicz T. , Cioch U. , Olenderek B. , Krasowska B. , Rózewicka L. , Juzyszyn Z. , Wójcicki J. , Samochowiec L.
Published: October 2006

Cernitins are preparations obtained from plant pollen which contain numerous compounds of potential biological significance. This work deals with the influence of cernitins upon acute paracetamol toxicity in mice. The survival rate and indices of hepatic injury: aminotransferase and alkaline phosphatase activities, bilirubin level in serum, glutathione and cytochrome P‐450 content in liver, liver weight, histopathologic picture of the liver and presence of glycogen and lipids in stained liver sections, under different experimental protocols, were determined. It was found that cernitins are able to increase the survival rate of mice and reduce liver injury in acute paracetamol poisoning. Cernitins are more effective when administered after, rather than before, a dose of paracetamol. The possible mechanism through which cernitins may act is discussed.
Effect of Guchi Gao on HGF and PDL in periodontal tissue cells
Authors: Rui‐Fang Zhao , Bin Liu
Published: October 2006

The effects of eight herbs of Guchi Gao on periodontal tissue cells were investigated. The results show that Herba Dendrobii, Radix Ophiopogonis, and two other herbs can significantly promote attachment of human gingival fibroblasts (HGF) and periodontal ligament cells (PDL) and enhance the proliferation of the latter. This may account for the effect of Guchi Gao and suggests a potential treatment for periodontitis in the future.
Experimental Ricinus communis poisoning in chicks
Authors: El Badwi S. M. A. , Adam S. E. I. , Hapke H. J.
Published: October 2006

Seven‐day‐old male Brown Hisex chicks were fed Ricinus communis seed at concentrations of 0.5% and 5%. Mortality rates, signs, pathological changes and alterations in clinical chemistry were recorded. The results indicated that both diets containing Ricinus seed are fatal to chicks and that toxicity is characterized by locomotor disturbances, impaired vision, abnormal posture, growth depression, enterohepatonephropathies and anaemia. Significant increases in serum sorbitol dehydrogenase (SDH), glutamic dehydrogenase (GDH), glutamic oxaloacetic transaminase (GOT), potassium, and total hepatic and cardiac lipids, and decreases in hepatic vitamin A, serum total protein and manganese concentrations were observed in Ricinus‐fed chicks.
Physical and antibacterial characteristics of the volatile oil of Hemizygia welwitschii (Rolfe)
Authors: Oyedele A. O. , Lamikanra A. , Orafidiya L. O.
Published: October 2006

The physical properties and antibacterial profile of the steam‐distilled volatile oil from twigs of Hemizygia welwitschii (Rolfe) have been studied. The volatile oil content of the plant was affected by the time of the day the twigs were collected and extracted, being relatively higher in daytime than at night. The oil content was higher in the leaves than in the stems and branches. However, the average yield was 0.11% v/w. The oil is soluble in ethanol, diethyl ether, chloroform, xylene and dimethylsulphoxide. The oil has a weight‐per‐millilitre of approximately 885 mg at 28 °C, a specific rotation range of −95.29 to −93.75, and a refractive index of 1.4818. The oil exhibited antibacterial activity against Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli, Bacillus subtilis and Pseudomonas aeruginosa, the latter being the most resistant organism.
Differential antagonistic effect of hydroalcoholic extract from Hymenaea martiana hayne arzeik on kinin and other agonist‐induced contractions of the isolated rat uterus and Guinea‐pig ileum
Authors: Calixto J. B. , Yunes R. A. , Medeiros Y. S.
Published: October 2006

This study was undertaken to evaluate the action of the hydroalcoholic extract (HE) from the bark of Hymenaea martiana on bradykinin (BK), lysyl‐bradykinin (L‐BK), acetylcholine (ACh), angiotensin II (AII), prostaglandin F2a (PGF2a), serotonin (5‐HT), oxytocin (Ot) and histamine (His)‐induced contractions of the isolated rat uterine muscle and guinea‐pig ileum. The HE (50–200 μg/mL) added to the bath for 20 min caused a concentration‐dependent rightward displacement of BK, L‐BK and ACh‐induced contractions in the rat uterus, allied to a discrete but significant reduction of maximal responses to the latter two agonists. By contrast, at the same range of concentrations the HE antagonized in a concentration‐dependent but noncompetitive manner the contractions induced by AII, but only at high concentrations (200 μg/mL) it significantly inhibited contractions evoked by both PGF2a and Ot, while contractile responses induced by 5‐HT were not affected. In the guinea‐pig ileum, the HE of H. martiana (50 and 100 μg/ml) caused a discrete rightward displacement of the BK and ACh concentration—response curves. Higher concentrations of the HE of H. martiana (200 μg/mL) caused a marked depression of BK and ACh‐induced maximal responses. These findings show that the active principle(s) presents in the HE from the bark of H. martiana exhibits an interesting pharmacological profile against several neurotransmitter‐induced contractions in nonvascular smooth muscles. Such actions may be relevant for supporting, at least in part, the use of this plant in folk medicine.
Vascular action of the crude hydroalcoholic extract from Hymenaea martiana on the isolated rat and rabbit aorta
Authors: Calixto J. B. , Yunes R. A. , Medeiros Y. S.
Published: October 2006

The present study investigates the effect of the hydroalcoholic extract (HE) from Hymenaea martiana (Leguminosae) on endothelium‐dependent and independent relaxation responses induced by acetylcholine (ACh), histamine (His), calcium ionophore (A23187) and sodium nitroprusside in precontracted aortic rings from rat and rabbit. In addition, we have also evaluated the action of the HE on noradrenaline‐ (NA), angiotensin I‐(AI) and AII‐induced contractions in the rabbit aorta. The HE (0.25–0.5 mg/mL) inhibited in a concentration‐dependent manner the relaxant response induced by ACh in rings of rabbit aorta and by His in rat aorta. Relaxation in response to A23187 was inhibited in rat but not in rabbit aortic rings. In contrast, the HE was completely ineffective against endothelium‐independent relaxations caused/by sodium nitroprusside in rabbit aorta rings. The HE (0.5–1.0 mg/mL) significantly enhanced the maximal contractile responses induced by NA in rabbit aorta set up with the endothelium, but caused no effect in endothelium rubbed preparations. In addition, the HE (0.5 mg/mL) markedly antagonized the contractile responses elicited by AI, but caused only a slight effect on AII‐induced contractile responses in rabbit aorta. These findings indicate that the active principle(s) present in the HE from the bark of Hymenaea martiana selectively inhibit the endothelium‐dependent vasorelaxant responses caused by several substances in aortic rings from rat and rabbit, presumably by a mechanism related with endothelium‐derived relaxation factor synthesis and/or inactivation. The HE also antagonized AI but not AII‐induced contractions in rabbit aorta, suggesting some interference with the angiotensin converting enzyme.
Antiulcerogenic activity of aescine in different experimental models
Authors: Marhuenda E. , Martin M. J. , Alarcon Lastra C. De La
Published: October 2006

The antiulcerogenic effect of aescine was studied on cold restraint, pylorus‐ligated and absolute ethanol induced ulcers in comparison to ranitidine and carbenoxolone. Gastric mucus output, total protein and hexosamines content were measured, In pyloric‐ligated animals, acidity, as well as biochemical assay of pepsin, histamine, sodium and potassium electrolytes were also determined. Oral treatment with aescine was found to be effective in the prevention of gastric ulceration induced by absolute ethanol, although mucus secretion was not enhanced. In pyloric‐ligated animals aescine showed a considerable reduction in the number and severity of ulcers. A significant reduction in gastric secretion was also observed.
Effects of crude drugs derived from animal sources on sexual and learning behaviour in chronically stressed mice
Authors: Morishita Shin‐Ichi , Shoji Masamichi , Oguni Yasuhiro , Hirai Yasuharu , Sugimoto Chishio , Ito Chihiro
Published: October 2006

Crude drugs derived from the animal sources, Agkistrodon Japonicae (Hampi), Gecko (Goukai), Phocae Testis et Penis (Kaikujin), Muschus (musk) and Bezoar Bovis (bezoar) were studied to determine their effects on sexual and learning behaviour in mice subjected to chronic “hanging stress”. Drugs were given orally once a day for 14 days, sexual (licking, mounting and intromission) and learning (memory retrieval and memory extinction) behaviours were observed. All drugs protected mice against a stress‐induced decrease of licking and intromission behaviour, and all drugs, except Goukai, also protected against a decrease in mounting behaviour due to stress. Kaikujin protected mice against the stress‐induced increase of acceleration of memory loss and failure of memory retrieval. Hampi, Goukai and bezoar protected mice against stress‐induced increase of failure to retrieve memory. Musk protected mice against the stress‐induced increase of acceleration of memory loss. These results suggest that these drugs have protective effects against chronically exhausted states.
Effects of ginsenoside‐Rb2 on RNA synthesis
Authors: Yokozawa T. , Yasui T. , Oura H.
Published: October 2006

The effects of a single intraperitoneal injection of ginsenoside‐Rb2, 2.5 mg/100g body weight, on the synthesis of nuclear RNA in liver cells were determined serially after administration. Although the RNA content remained almost unchanged, the uptake of orotic acid by RNA reached a peak 6h after ginsenoside‐Rb2 administration. On the other hand, the total RNA polymerase activity increased after administration, reaching a peak at 4h; the RNA polymerase II activity also showed a pattern of variation similar to that of total RNA polymerase activity. In addition, the activity of RNA polymerase I also showed an increase suggesting that ginsenoside‐Rb2 promoted the synthesis of rRNA and mRNA.
Thereapeutic response of Tribulus terrestris (gokhru) aqueous extract on hyperoxaluria in male adult rats
Authors: Sangeeta D. , Sidhu H. , Thind S. K. , Nath R. , Vaidyanathan S.
Published: October 2006

The effect of an aqueous extract of Tribulus terrestris (an indigenous drug) administered orally at a dose of 5 g/kg body weight was studied in six male adult rats in whom hyperoxaluria was induced and maintained by hydroxyproline and sodium glycolate respectively. Twenty‐four hour urinary oxalate excretion reversed to normal, from 1.97±0.314 to 0.144±0.004 mg/mg creatinine (p<0.01) within 21 days of administration of T. terrestris extract and remained so until 15 days after withdrawal of extract and sodium glycolate.
Hepatoprotective effect of ethanolic extract of Eclipta alba on experimental liver damage in rats and mice
Authors: Singh B. , Saxena A. K. , Chandan B. K. , Agarwal S. G. , Bhatia M. S. , Anand K. K.
Published: October 2006

An alcoholic extract of freshly collected Eclipta alba exhibited dose‐dependent (62.5–500.0 mg/kg p.o.) significant hepatoprotective activity against carbon tetrachloride‐induced liver injury in rats and mice. It indicated its protective role on parameters such as hexobarbitone‐induced sleep, zoxazolamine‐induced paralysis, bromosulphalen (BSP) clearance, serum levels of transaminases, bilirubin and protein. The extract did not show any signs of toxicity and the minimum lethal dose was greater than 2.0 g/kg when given orally and intraperitoneally in mice.
Effects of the standardized Panax ginseng extract g115 on the D‐glucose transport by Ehrlich ascites tumour cells
Authors: Yamasaki K. , Murakami C. , Ohtani K. , Kasai R. , Kurokawa T. , Ishibashi S. , Soldati F. , Stöckli M. , Mulz D.
Published: October 2006

The effect of standardized Panax ginseng extract (G115 Pharmaton) on D‐glucose uptake by Ehrlich ascites tumour cells from mouse was examined. Measurements were carried out using [3H]‐2‐deoxy‐D‐glucose, a non‐metabolizable glucose analogue. [3H]‐2‐deoxy‐D‐glucose was transported from the medium to cells and phosphorylated but was neither further metabolized nor eliminated. Thus, the amount taken in the cells was a measure of D‐glucose uptake. The results showed that G115 stimulated D‐glucose transport and the maximum effect was obtained at a G115 concentration of 2.0 μg/mL representing an increase of about 35% above basal activity.
Renal responses to magnesium lithospermate B in rats with adenine‐induced renal failure
Authors: Yokozawa Takako , Lee Tae Woong , Oura Hikokichi , Hattori Masao , Nonaka Gen‐Ichiro , Nishioka Itsuo
Published: October 2006

A study was conducted to investigate the effects of magnesium lithospermate B on the uraemic symptoms and development of hypertension in rats with adenine‐induced renal failure. Chronic administration of 10 mg/kg body weight/day magnesium lithospermate B significantly reduced serum urea nitrogen, creatinine, methylguanidine, guanidinosuccinic acid and inorganic phosphate, accompanied by increased urinary excretion of urea, creatinine and electrolytes. In addition, renal tissue blood flow was significantly increased and mean blood pressure significantly decreased in the magnesium lithospermate B‐treated group compared with the control group. These results confirm that chronic administration of magnesium lithospermate B to rats with adenine‐induced renal failure ameliorates the uraemic symptoms and development of hypertension by improving renal haemodynamics and electrolyte metabolism.
Terminalia arjuna, an ayurvedic cardiotonic, increases contractile force of rat isolated atria
Authors: Radhakrishnan R. , Wadsworth R. M. , Gray A. I.
Published: October 2006

The direct effects of aqueous, ethanolic, chloroform and petroleum ether extracts of Terminalia arjuna (family: Combretaceae) bark, an ayurvedic remedy for cardiovascular disorders, were studied on isolated atria of rats. The aqueous extract produced a substantial positive inotropic effect (EC50 = 0.25 mg/mL) but no change in the rate. The ethanol, chloroform and petroleum ether extracts all decreased the rate of contraction. A slight increase in force was seen with ethanol and chloroform extracts. Higher concentrations of the chloroform extract had a negative inotropic effect. The ethanol extract decreased the maximum following frequency of the left atria. It is concluded that Terminalia arjuna has a significant positive inotropic property on rat atria in vitro which could contribute to its efficacy in treating cardiovascular disorders.
Neuroendocrinological approach for examining the mechanisms of action of Toki‐Shakuyaku‐San (TJ‐23) on the activity of tyrosine hydroxylase in the brain
Authors: Toriizuka Kazuo , Hagino Nobuyoshi , Terasawa Katsutoshi
Published: October 2006

Administration of the Kampo medicine, TJ‐23, to ovariectomized rats resulted in decreased tyrosis hydroxylase (TH) activity in the dorsal hippocampus but an increased activity in the ventral tegmental area. A decrease of TH activity in the hypothalamus was not statistically significant. The effect of TJ‐23 was compared to oestrogen in a similar group of rats and it was concluded that the standard drug and TJ‐23 induced similar effects.
Antiulcer activity of the stem bark extract of Entandrophragma angolense
Authors: Njar V. C. O. , Adesanwo J. K. , Makinde J. M. , Taiwo O. B.
Published: October 2006

The effect of a methanol extract of the stem bark of Entandrophragma angolense was investigated on indomethacin‐induced gastric ulcer in rats. The effect of the extract was dose‐dependent, doses ranging from 0.4 to 1.6 g/kg produced significant effect (p<0.05). At the highest dose used (1.6 g/kg) complete inhibition of ulceration occurred. The probable mechanism of action of E. angolense is discussed.
Spasmogenic effect of Datura metel root extract on rat uterus and rectum smooth muscles
Authors: Prabhakar E. , Kumar N. V. Nanda
Published: October 2006

The effect of Dautura metel leaf and root extracts, scopolamine and acetylcholine was studied on isolated smooth muscle preparations. Datura metel leaf extract and scopolamine showed antispasmodic effects, whereas Datura metel root extract and acetylcholine caused contracture in isolated rat uterus and rectum whole muscle. This suggests the presence of a spasmogenic factor in Datura metel root extract.
Pharmacological studies on hypotensive and spasmolytic activities of pure compounds from Moringa oleifera
Authors: Gilani Anwar H. , Aftab Khalid , Suria Amin , Siddiqui Salimuzzaman , Salem Rubeena , Siddiqui Bina S. , Faizi Shaheen
Published: October 2006

Bioassay directed fractionation of an ethanolic extract of Moringa oleifera (MO) leaves resulted in the isolation of four pure compounds, niazinin A (1), niazinin B (2), niazimicin (3) and niaziminin A + B (4 + 5). Intravenous administration of either one of the compounds (1–10 mg/kg) produced hypotensive and bradycardiac effects in anaesthetized rats. Pretreatment of the animals with atropine (1 mg/kg) completely abolished the hypotensive and bradycardiac effects of acetylcholine (ACh), whereas cardiovascular responses to the test compounds remained unaltered, ruling out the possible involvement of muscarinic receptor activation. In isolated guinea‐pig atria all the compounds (50–150 μg/mL) produced negative inotropic and chronotropic effects. Each compound inhibited K+ ‐induced contractions in rabbit aorta as well as ileal contractions induced by ACh or histamine at similar concentrations. Spontaneous contractions of rat uterus were also inhibited equally by all compounds. These data indicate that the direct depressant action of these compounds exhibited on all the isolated preparations tested is probably responsible for its hypotensive and bradycardiac effects observed in vivo. Moreover, spasmolytic activity exhibited by the constituents of the plant provides a scientific basis for the traditional uses of the plant in gastrointestinal motility disorders.
Oligo‐ and macrocyclic diterpenes in thymelaeaceae and Euphorbiaceae occurring and utilized in Yunnan (Southwest China). 6. Tigliane type diterpene esters from latex of Euphorbia prolifera
Authors: Dagang Wu , Sorg B. , Hecker E.
Published: October 2006

Five tigliane type diterpene esters were isolated from the latex of Euphorbia prolifera Buch‐Hom by means of Craig distribution followed by thin layer chromatography. Structural elucidations were done by spectroscopic methods (MS, NMR) and revealed the following Euphorbia factors: Pr1 to be a 12,13‐diester of 4,20‐dideoxyphorbol (12‐benzoate‐13‐isobutyrate), Pr2, Pr3: to be 12,13‐diesters of 4,20‐dideoxy‐5ξ‐hydroxyphorbol (12‐benzoate‐13‐isobutyrate and 12,13‐diisobutyrate, respectively), Pr4/Pr5: to be a mixture of 12,13‐diesters of 4‐deoxyphorbol [12‐(2,4‐decadienoate)‐13‐isobutyrate/12‐(2,4,6‐decatrienoate)‐13‐isobutyrate]. All compounds were assayed on the mouse ear for irritant activity: Pr1 was weakly and the mixture Pr4/Pr5 was highly active, Pr2 and Pr3 were practically inactive.
Evaluation of the aphrodisiac activity of Litsea chinensis (Lauraceae) and Orchis malculata (Orchidaceae) extracts in rats
Authors: Ageel A. M. , Islam M. W. , Ginawi O. T. , Al‐Yahya M. A.
Published: October 2006

The ethanolic extract of the bark of Litsea chinensis and the tuber of Orchis maculata were studied on male sexual behaviour in rats using a battery of tests including penile erection, homosexual mounting, stretching/yawning, aggressive behaviour, copulatory behaviour and orientational activities. The extract of O. maculata (500 mg/kg, p.o.) produced a significant increase in penile erection index, homosexual mounting and facilitated sexual behaviour and orientational activity, as evidenced by increased mounting performance, anogenital sniffing, intromission and ejaculation frequencies. The group of animals given the extract of L. chinensis produced a significant increase in ejaculation latency with a significant decrease in ejaculation frequency. The results indicate that O. maculata extract enhanced sexual arousal in male rats.
Effects of Wen‐Pi‐Tang and its crude drug extracts on proliferation of cultured mouse mesangial cells
Authors: Yokozawa Takako , Oura Hikokichi , Hattori Masao , Iwano Masayuki , Dohi Kazuhiro
Published: October 2006

The efficacy of Wen‐Pi‐Tang and each of its crude drug extracts on the proliferation of mouse mesangial cells was determined in terms of [3H]thymidine uptake. When Wen‐Pi‐Tang was added to the medium of mesangial cell cultures, it suppressed the proliferation of mesangial cells markedly. Similar to the effects of Wen‐Pi‐Tang, Rhei Rhizoma, its main ingredient, exerted an inhibitory effect on mesangial cell proliferation at a relatively low concentration. Ginseng Radix and Aconiti Tuber were also an effective crude drug. As for Zingiberis Rhizoma, an inhibitory activity at relatively high concentration was noted. However, the proliferation of mesangial cells in the presence of Glycyrrhizae Radix showed no particular alteration. As is clear from the results of the present study, Rhei Rhizoma, Ginseng Radix, Aconiti Tuber and Zingiberis Rhizoma alone each exert an inhibitory effect. The inhibition of mesangial cell proliferation by Wen‐Pi‐Tang can thus be explained by the action of these crude drugs.
The antiinflammatory and liver protective effects of Boussingaultia gracilis var. pseudobaselloides extract in rats
Authors: Lin Chun‐Ching , Sung Tuan‐Ching , Yen Ming‐Hong
Published: October 2006

The pharmacological effects of Boussingaultia gracilis var. pseudobaselloides was studied against carrageenaninduced paw oedema, CCI4 and D‐galactosamine (D‐GalN) induced hepatotoxicity in rats. The water extracts of B. gracilis var. pseudobaselloides (leaf, stem, brood bud) were found to maintain significant antiinflammatory activity against carrageenan‐induced oedema. The administration of the brood bud extract (300 mg/kg) was more potent than indomethacin (10 mg/kg).

Moreover, the water extracts of B. gracilis var. pseudobaselloides (leaf, stem, brood bud) significantly decreased the acute increase in serum GOT and GPT levels caused by CCI4 and D‐GalN. Histological changes such as necrosis, fatty change, ballooning degeneration, inflammatory infiltration of lymphocytes and Kupffer cells around the central vein (CCI4‐induced hepatotoxicity) and portal vein (D‐GalN induced hepatotoxicity), were simultaneously improved by the treatment with B. gracilis var. pseudobaselloides (leaf, stem, brood bud).
Antifertility effects of some coumarins isolated from Ruta chalepensis and R. chalepensis var. latifolia in rodents
Authors: Ulubelen A. , Ertugrul L. , Birman H. , Yigit R. , Erseven G. , Olgac V.
Published: October 2006

Crude extracts of Ruta chalepensis and R. chalepensis var. latifolia showed antifertility activity in female rats. In order to establish the active constituents which may be responsible for this effect, a group of selected coumarins and alkaloids were tested in vivo. Although chalepensin, bergaptol, chalepin and xanthatoxin showed antifertility activity, 70% of the test animals developed cystic and atretic follicles in their ovaries and glomerulocapsular adhesion and segmental fusion was observed in the kidneys. No harmful effect was observed in the brain. Alkaloids in this study showed no antifertility activity.