Myrica Salicifolia (Myricaceae) an investigation into the pharmacological basis of its use in traditional medicine
Abstract
Myrica salicifolia Hochst ex A. Rich (Myricaceae) is a tree whose root extracts are drank by masai worriors to prime themselves for battle. In humans
the extract is reported to produce detachment from the
external environment, feelings of invincibility,
irritability, aggressiveness, overeaction to extraneous
sounds and a tendency to keep a posture for a long time.
the objective of this work was to explore the
usefulness of this plant by defining its pharmacological
profile in laboratory animals. To this end the plant
extract was put through a battery of neuropsychopharmacological tests and an examination of its systemic
pharmacological and toxicblogical effects.
tested on gross behavioural effects in rats and
mice, salicifolia root extract proved to be a central
nervous system (CNS) depressant which did not cause
sleep even in high doses. The depressant activity was
characterised by reduction in spontaneous and motor
activity, muscle relaxation, palpebral ptosis and
catalepsy. The depressant effect was further reflected
by the potentiation by the extract of the hypnotic
effect of three different cns depressants, diethyl ether,
ethanol and pentobarbitone.
Citation
Master of science (Phamacology) of the University of Nairobi, 1986Publisher
University of nairobi School of medicine