[Action of phytoecdysteroids on the bile-secretory function of the normal liver and in experimental hepatitis]

Phytoecdysteroids from Rhaponticum carthemoides (Willd) Iljin and Ajuga turkestanica (Rgl.) Brig in a dose of 5 mg/kg per os markedly stimulate the bile secretion in normal rats treated with single (cyasterone) and 7-day-long (ecdysterone, cyasterone) administration. The chemical composition of the bile is significantly improved because of increased levels of bile acids and bilirubin and a decreased cholesterol content. Phytoecdysteroids (ecdysterone) exert more beneficial effect on the parameters under study in rats with toxic hepatitis induced by heliotrine.