Zhongguo Zhong Yao Za Zhi. 1999 Apr; 24(4): 238-9, 256-inside back cover.

[Cerebral protective effects of some compounds isolated from traditional Chinese herbs]

Ma L, Xiao P, Guo B, Wu J, Liang F, Dong S.

Institute of Medicinal Plants, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100094.

OBJECTIVE: To study the cerebral protective effects of some compounds isolated from traditional Chinese herbs. METHOD: Laser microcirculation dynamic analyzer and cultured rat cortical neurons were used. RESULT: Pueraria lobata flavonoids(LPF), Panax notoginseng saponins(PNS), oxymatrine, anisodamine and berberine could dilate microvessels and increase the cerebral blood flow of anesthetized mice's meninges. LPF, PNS, oxymatrine, and anisodamine also accelerated the flow of blood. Oxymatrine, like anisodamine, increased quantities of erythrocytes in high frequency movements. PNS could protect cultured rat cortical neurons from glutamate neurotoxicity. CONCLUSION: LPF, PNS, oxymatrine, anisodamine and berberine have certain protective effects on brain, but differ in mechanisms of action.