Antidiarrhoeal and bronchodilatory potential of Valeriana wallichii

Nat Prod Res. 2012;26(11):1045-9. doi: 10.1080/14786419.2010.551754. Epub 2011 Oct 20.

Abstract

This study describes the antidiarrhoeal and bronchodilatory activities of Valeriana wallichii D.C. (Valerianaceae). The crude extract of V. wallichii (Vw.Cr) caused inhibition of castor oil-induced diarrhoea in mice at 300-600 mg kg⁻¹. In guinea-pig trachea, Vw.Cr concentration dependently (0.03-3.0 mg mL⁻¹) relaxed the low K+ (25 mM)-induced contractions, with a mild effect on the contractions induced by high K+ (80 mM). In the presence of glibenclamide, the relaxation of low K+-induced contractions was prevented. Similarly, cromakalim caused glibenclamide-sensitive inhibition of low K+, without any effect on high K+. These results indicate that V. wallichii exhibits antidiarrhoeal and bronchodilatory activities, possibly through K+ channel activation, and thus reveal its medicinal usefulness in hyperactive gut and airway disorders such as diarrhoea and asthma.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Antidiarrheals / pharmacology*
  • Bronchodilator Agents / pharmacology*
  • Guinea Pigs
  • Plant Extracts / pharmacology*
  • Valerian / chemistry*

Substances

  • Antidiarrheals
  • Bronchodilator Agents
  • Plant Extracts