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Cardioactive compounds from Eremophila species
M Pennacchio1, Y M Syah, E L Ghisalberti
1School of Environmental Biology, Curtin University of Technology, Perth, Australia.
Journal of Ethnopharmacology
|July 26, 1996
Summary
Two Eremophila plant compounds were isolated and identified for their effects on heart function. Verbascoside from E. alternifolia increased heart activity, while geniposidic acid from E. longifolia inhibited it.
Area of Science:
- Pharmacology
- Ethnobotany
- Phytochemistry
Background:
- Eremophila species are integral to Australian Aboriginal pharmacopoeia.
- Traditional medicinal plants are a source of novel bioactive compounds.
Purpose of the Study:
- To isolate and identify cardioactive compounds from Eremophila species.
- To investigate the pharmacological effects of these compounds on cardiac function.
Main Methods:
- Phytochemical isolation techniques were employed.
- Langendorff rat heart preparations were used to assess cardiac function (chronotropism, inotropism, coronary perfusion rate).
Main Results:
- Verbascoside, isolated from E. alternifolia, significantly increased heart rate, contractility, and coronary perfusion.
- Geniposidic acid, isolated from E. longifolia, significantly decreased heart rate, contractility, and coronary perfusion.
Conclusions:
- Eremophila species contain compounds with opposing effects on cardiac function.
- Verbascoside and geniposidic acid represent potential leads for cardiovascular drug discovery.