N. V.L Suvarchala reddy V

ABSTRACT

Pharmacological investigation of methanolic extract of Rhynchosia beddomei whole plant (MERB) for its antihypertensive activity, ACE inhibition, antioxidant activity via radical scavenging activity. Albino Wistar rats were treated with dexamethasone (30??g/kg/day s.c) or saline for 14 days. MERB (300?mg/kg b.w., p.o.) was administered from day 8 to 14 day of study. Chronic fructose treatment in rats has repeatedly been shown to elevate blood pressure in association with insulin resistance. MERB (300 mg/kg b.w, p.o) was able to prevent the establishment of hypertension by decreasing the elevated blood pressure levels. The reduction in blood pressure is attributed to the inhibition of ACE by 49.6%. The preliminary phytochemical investigation suggests that the MERB possesses flavonoids, phenolics and steroids. MERB exhibited 1, 1 diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl radical-scavenging activity with IC50 value of 7.4 µg/ml as well as superoxide ion extinguishing ability with IC50 value of 12.5 µg/ml. MERB exhibits antihypertensive activity by inhibiting angiotensin converting enzyme and antioxidant activity by radical scavenging property. These findings reveal the presence of potential active constituents of MERB.