Pharmacological investigation of activities pertaining to modulation of gastrointestinal, respiratory and cardiovascular parameters by Indigofera argentea in experimental models.

Indigofera argentea is widely used for the management of gastrointestinal, respiratory and cardiac disorders. This study was done to explore scientific basis of its uses. Aqueous methanolic extract of Indigofera argentea and its fractions were studied on isolated tissues of rabbit's jejunum, trachea, aorta and atrium. Castor oil induced diarrheal model was used for the study of the antidiarrheal effect and pre-anesthetized rats were used for hypotensive study. Concentration dependent spasmolytic effect of the extract upon isolated jejunum, trachea and aorta was observed. Concentration response curves constructed upon isolated rabbit jejunum, revealed the presence of calcium channel blocker in the plant extract. Moreover, significant reduction (P<0.05) in atrial force of contraction but non-significant reduction in rate of contraction was seen by the application of plant extract. Protection (P<0.05) against diarrhea was observed by the administration of crude extract to rats which were pretreated with castor oil. When given to rats intravenously, the extract showed hypotensive effect. Experimental findings justified the traditional uses of Indigofera argentea on pharmacological basis for the management of disorders pertaining to gut, airway and hypertensive situation.