EFFECT OF ETHANOLICLEAF EXTRACT OF BRYOPHYLLUM PINNATUM ON HAMODYNAMIC PARAMETERS OF NORMOTENSIVE WISTAR RATS
Abstract
The search for plant-derived therapeutic agents with cardiovascular benefits has intensified due to the rising prevalence of cardiovascular disorders and the limitations associated with conventional drugs. This study investigates the effect of ethanolic leaf extract of Bryophyllum pinnatum on haemodynamic parameters in normotensive Wistar rats. *Bryophyllum pinnatum*, a medicinal plant widely used in traditional medicine, has been reported to possess antihypertensive, anti-inflammatory, and cardioprotective properties, which may influence cardiovascular function.
Fresh leaves of *B. pinnatum* were collected, air-dried, and subjected to ethanol extraction using standard maceration techniques. Experimental animals were randomly divided into control and treatment groups, with the latter receiving graded doses of the extract. Haemodynamic parameters including systolic blood pressure, diastolic blood pressure, mean arterial pressure, and heart rate were measured using non-invasive techniques at baseline and after treatment.
The results demonstrated that administration of the ethanolic leaf extract produced a dose-dependent modulation of haemodynamic indices. Notably, there was a significant reduction (p < 0.05) in systolic and diastolic blood pressure, as well as mean arterial pressure, in treated groups compared to the control, while heart rate showed mild but non-significant alterations. These findings suggest a potential vasodilatory or negative chronotropic effect of the extract, possibly mediated through phytochemical constituents such as flavonoids, alkaloids, and saponins.
In conclusion, the ethanolic leaf extract of *Bryophyllum pinnatum* exhibits hypotensive effects in normotensive Wistar rats, indicating its potential as a natural agent for cardiovascular regulation. Further studies are recommended to elucidate the underlying biochemical mechanisms and to evaluate its safety profile for possible therapeutic application.
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