ANTIHYPERTENSIVE EFFECT OF THE ALCOHOLIC EXTRACT OF SEEDS OF PHASEOLUS VULGARIS LINN. (FABACEAE) ON HIGH SALT DIET INDUCED HYPERTENSION IN MALE RATS

Aim: To evaluate the antihypertensive effect of ethanolic extract of seeds of Phaseolus vulgaris Linn. (EEPV) on high salt diet induced hypertension in male rats. Methods: Male wistar rats (180-200g) received high salt diet (8% NaCl) and 1% saline water for 6 weeks, then cannulated for dosing of Enalapril, angiotensin converting enzyme inhibitor (0.5 mg/kg, i.v.) in standard group and EEPV (50 and 100 mg/kg, i.v.) in test group and measured mean blood pressure, systolic blood pressure, diastolic blood pressure and heart rate with the help of Power Lab 6 Pro after 60 minutes of treatment. Results: Elevated blood pressure of the animals was significantly (P < 0.05) decreased by EEPV (100 mg/kg, i.v). Enalapril, at the dose of 0.5 mg/kg, i.v. showed significant (P < 0.05) reduction in the elevated blood pressure. The antihypertensive activity of ethanolic extract of seeds of Phaseolus vulgaris Linn. may be due to the action on rennin-angiotensin system. The antihypertensive activity of EEPV might also be explained by the presence of phytochemical constituents like flavanoids and saponins in the plant. Conclusion: The work demonstrated that the concomitant administration of high-salt and EEPV elicits prevention of high salt-induced hypertension in rats. Overall, results justify and support the use of Phaseolus vulgaris Linn. as antihypertensive medicine.