Effects of African Mistletoe on Blood Pressure
Author Information
Author(s): Iwalokun Bamidele A., Hodonu Sedoten A., Nwoke Stella, Ojo Olabisi, Agomo Phillip U.
Primary Institution: Nigerian Institute of Medical Research
Hypothesis
Mechanisms exist to mediate the hypotensive action of Loranthus micranthus, which remain largely unknown.
Conclusion
The study concludes that Loranthus micranthus has anti-hypertensive activity involving anti-artherogenic events, vasorelaxation, cardiac arginase reduction, and nitric oxide elevation.
Supporting Evidence
- NBF-LMME showed the highest dose-dependent inhibitory effect on rat aorta contraction.
- Serum nitric oxide levels increased significantly in mice treated with NBF-LMME.
- NBF-LMME reduced cardiac arginase activity by 11.7%.
- Total cholesterol and LDL-cholesterol levels were significantly lower in treated mice compared to controls.
Takeaway
This study shows that a plant called African mistletoe can help lower blood pressure and improve heart health.
Methodology
The study involved administering different fractions of Loranthus micranthus to rats and mice, measuring their effects on blood pressure and serum lipid profiles.
Limitations
The aorta was not de-endotheliazed to study the role played by the endothelium.
Participant Demographics
Albino mice and rats were used in the experiments.
Statistical Information
P-Value
0.005
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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