Pharmacological basis for the medicinal use of Michelia champaca in gut, airways and cardiovascular disorders

Abstract

Objective: To discover the mechanism behind ameliorative effects of Michelia champaca (M. champaca) in gastrointestinal, respiratory and cardiovascular disorders. Methods: Anti- spasmodic potential was evaluated by trying the M. champaca extract (aqueous:ethanolic) on rabbit aorta, trachea and jejunum in vitro. Isotonic and isometric transducers coupled with Power Lab data acquisition system was used to record the responses of isolated tissues. Results: M. champaca extract relaxed the spontaneous and high K+ (80 mmol/L)-induced contractions of isolated jejunum preparation of rabbit showing a Ca2+ channel blocking mechanism. Moreover, extract shifted calcium concentration response curves towards right like standard calcium channel blocker verapamil. In rabbit tracheal preparation, M. champaca relaxed both carbachol (1 1 μmol/L) and high K+-induced contractions, likewise verapamil. In rabbit aorta preparation, M. champaca relaxed phenylephrine (1 μmol/L) and high K+-induced contractions similar to verapamil. Conclusion: M. champaca possesses spasmolytic, airways relaxant and vasodilator actions mediated perhaps due to blocking of Ca2+ channels, hence validating its therapeutic usage in diarrhea, asthma and hypertension.

Keywords

• michelia chamapaca
• ca2+ channel blocker
• spasmolytic
• airway relaxant
• vasodilator