Codonopsis lanceolata extract prevents hypertension in rats

Area of Science:

• Pharmacology
• Natural Product Research
• Cardiovascular Science

Background:

• Codonopsis lanceolata is a traditional medicinal plant with known antioxidant, anti-cancer, anti-inflammatory, and lipid-improving properties.
• Its therapeutic applications are well-established in traditional medicine.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the potential of an ethanol extract of Codonopsis lanceolata (ECL) in preventing and managing hypertension.
• To evaluate the antihypertensive and anti-inflammatory effects of ECL in a rat model.

Main Methods:

• Rats were administered daily doses of 0, 200, or 400 mg/kg ECL for three weeks.
• Hypertension was induced via immobilization stress and nicotine administration.
• Systolic blood pressure, heart rate, aortic vasoconstriction/vasodilation, and neutrophil counts were measured.

Main Results:

• Both 200 and 400 mg/kg ECL significantly reduced systolic blood pressure in hypertensive rats.
• ECL treatment showed a tendency to improve vascular relaxation.
• The 200 mg/kg dose of ECL significantly decreased neutrophil counts, indicating an anti-inflammatory effect.

Conclusions:

• Ethanol extract of Codonopsis lanceolata (ECL) demonstrates efficacy in reducing systolic blood pressure.
• ECL exhibits anti-inflammatory properties beneficial in hypertensive conditions.
• These findings support the use of ECL as a potential therapeutic agent for hypertension.