Oxytocin inhibiting effect of the aqueous leaf extract of Ficus exasperata (Moraceae) on the isolated rat uterus.

Aqueous extract of Ficus exasperata at 1.0 x 10(-2) mg/mL significantly increased the EC50 of oxytocin-induced uterine contractions.

• The extract did not significantly affect contractions induced by acetylcholine or ergometrine.
• Positive controls salbutamol and verapamil significantly increased the EC50 of oxytocin, acetylcholine, and ergometrine.
• Salbutamol and verapamil also significantly inhibited the frequency and amplitude of spontaneous uterine contractions.
• The findings may support the traditional use of Ficus exasperata in preventing preterm births.

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