CARDIOTONIC ACTIVITY OF ISOLATED CARDIAC GLYCOSIDE FROM THE FRUITS OF CORCHORUS AESTUANS LINN

Abstract

Preliminary phytochemical investigation of various extracts of fruits of Corchorus aestuans Linn showed the presence of cardiac glycosides, triterpenes, carbohydrates, saponins, flavonoids, tannins and fatty acids. An attempt has been made to isolate cardiac glycoside and perform cardiotonic activity of the same. The cardiotonic effect was studied by using isolated frog heart perfusion technique (IFHP). Ringer solution without calcium was used as a vehicle for administration of isolated cardiac glycoside as test and digoxin as standard. A significant increase in the height of force of contraction (positive inotropic effect) and decrease in heart rate (negative chronotropic effect) was observed at smaller doses (0.4 mg). The effect increased as dose was increased. The test compound had not produced cardiac arrest even at a dose of 2 mg, a higher concentration as compared to standard, digoxin that showed cardiac arrest at dose of 0.2 mg. Hence, as compared to standard, test drug showed wide therapeutic index.