HYPOTENSIVE ACTIVITY OF CRUDE EXTRACT OF MARINE RED ALGAE, GRACILARIA SP. IN RATS

Abstract

Hypotensive properties of the crude extract of Sri Lankan marine red algae ^ Gracilaria sp. of the family Gracilaracea were investigated on anaesthetized rats using two doses (250 or SOOmg/kg) given intraperitoneally. The results show that the crude extract possesses antihypertensive properties. The extract induced an immediate fall in systolic blood pressure (within 5 min) which was shortlived with the lower dose and sustained with the higher dose. The precise mode of the antihypertensive action is uncertain but is likely to be mediated via decreased sympathetic activity