In vivo studies: multi-disciplinary action of Digitalis purpurea Linn. extract in rabbits

Abstract

In continuation to our studies on Digitalis purpurea Linn., now we report that on oral introduction of its extract in low concentration (25mg/ml)for 90 days in rabbits (male & female), most of the blood parameters were found normal except platelet count(elevated; 508.5±0.836 in comparison to control group). In kidney function test uric acid (0.063±0.007) and globulin (2.605±0.0083) levels were declined while others were raised in the male test group whereas only globulin (5.87±0.01) level was found elevated in female treated group and the rests were at the lower side. In cardiac enzymes evaluation, CPK level was elevated in both genders (male = 630.5±0.836; female = 927.5±0.836) whereas variations in other enzymes were also observed. In both genders, HDL level was found raised (male = 21.167±1.036; female = 14±0.632) while in other lipid profile parameters, variation was found between both genders. SGPT was found raised in both genders (male = 191.5±0.836; female = 83.5±0.836) whereas variation was observed in rest of liver enzymes results of both genders. Histo-pathology results at a low doses of D. purpurea extract for a period of 90 days are completely in accordance of blood parameters. No effects were found on heart, stomach, liver and kidney tissues in comparison to control group. Furthermore, in CCl4 toxicity induced test this drug showed hepatoprotective action. From our previous and present investigations, it is concluded that the drugs have anthelmintic, insecticidal, molluscicidal, antioxidant, BP stabilizing, diuretic, anti- urolithic, analgesic, anti-inflammatory and hepatoprotective properties and may be utilized for the preparation of different medicines.