This study was carried to examine the effects of the aqueous leaf extract of
Sesamum radiatum
,a laxative plant on
the contractile activity of
Taenia caeci
, an intestinal smooth muscle. Strips of
Taenia caeci were rapidly removed from
guinea-pig and were suspended between two L-shaped stainless steel hooks in a 10 ml organ bath with Mac Ewen solution.
The isometric contractile force of the
Taenia caeci strips were recorded by using a strain gauge.
S. radiatum aqueous leaf
extract (ESera) is a spasmogenic substance. This myostimulant effect is characterized by the increase of the rhythm and the
amplitude of isolated guinea-pig
Taenia caeci smooth muscle in normal solution and by the development of contracture in
modified solution and in solution without calcium. A similar effect was observed with ACh which caused a graded increase
of the contractile activity of
Taenia caeci. The effects induced by ESera and ACh were reversed in the presence of atropine.
The spasmogenic effect induced by ESera could justify partially the use of
S. radiatum as laxative in traditional medicine.
