Pharmacological actions of Heteromorpha trifoliata ("dombwe") on rat isolated muscle preparations.

The aqueous extract of Heteromorpha trifoliata contracted the rat uterus and diaphragm muscle in laboratory experiments.

• Contractions of the rat uterus were not blocked by atropine but were inhibited by cyproheptadine and verapamil.
• The contractile effects on the uterus may involve stimulation of 5-HT2 receptors, leading to increased calcium influx into smooth muscle cells.
• The diaphragm muscle also contracted in response to the extract, even in the presence of a nicotinic antagonist.
• The findings suggest that Heteromorpha trifoliata contains more than one active ingredient affecting smooth muscle.

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