Hypotensive properties of the crude extract of Sri Lankan marine red algaeGracilaria sp. of the family Graci/aracea were investigated on anaesthetized ratsusing two doses (250 or 500mg/kg) given intraperitoneal/yo The results showthat the crude extract possesses antihypertensive properties. The extract inducedan immediate fall in systolic blood pressure (within 5 min) which was shortlivedwith the lower dose and sustained with the higher dose. The precise modeof the antihypertensive action is uncertain but is likely to be mediated via decreasedsympathetic activity.
Author Biographies
W. D. RATNASOORIYA,, Department of Zoology and *Department of Chemistry,
University of Colombo,
Colombo 3,
Sri Lanka
Department of Zoology and *Department of Chemistry,
University of Colombo,
Colombo 3, Sri Lanka
G. A. S. PREMAKUMARA, Department of Zoology and *Department of Chemistry,
University of Colombo,
Colombo 3,
Sri Lanka
Department of Zoology and *Department of Chemistry,
University of Colombo,
Colombo 3, Sri Lanka
L. M. V. TILLEKERATNE, Department of Zoology and *Department of Chemistry,
University of Colombo,
Colombo 3,
Sri Lanka
Department of Zoology and *Department of Chemistry,
