Evaluation of prokinetic and laxative effects of Hippophae rhamnoides in rodents

Hippophae rhamnoides (Family; Elaeagnaceae) fruit extract was investigated for prokinetic and gut excitatory effects to rationalize its therapeutic utility in gastrointestinal complaints like delayed gastric emptying and constipation. The fruit extract of Hippophae rhamnoides (Hr.Cr) prepared in hydro-methanol (30:70) was verified for flavonoids, tannins, coumarins and terpenes as plant constituents. In mice, Hr.Cr administration caused an increased in faecal production and charcoal meal transport (50-300mg/kg, per-oral.), similar to activity pattern of carbamylcholine (1 mg/kg). Laxative and prokinetic effects of Hr.Cr were found partially atropine-sensitive. On challenge with isolated intestinal tissues, Hr.Cr charged a dose-dependent spasmogenic effect on jejunum (0.01-1mg/mL) preparations of rabbit and in ileal tissues (guinea-pig) at the dose range of 0.03 to 3mg/mL, following predominant relaxing impact at increased concentrations. Unlike carbamylcholine, stimulant effect of Hr.Cr was partly antagonized in atropine incubated tissues. These data attest the laxative, prokinetic and gut excitatory activities of Hippophae rhamnoides probably mediated through partial activation of muscarinic receptors. Further in agreement of the current findings with earlier reports on gastric emptying effects of Hippophae rhamnoides seed oil, this is the first study of its kind providing insight into mechanism to the laxative potential of Hippophae rhamnoides fruit, thus rationalizing its medicinal use in constipation.