The antihypertensive effects of the Jamaican Cho-Cho (Sechium edule)

The experiments reported in this study constitute a preliminary investigati on into the possible hypotensive effect of the Jamaican Cho-Cho (Sechium ed ule). Experiments were conducted in a random and blind fashion on two sub s pecies of Sechium edule. Both the pulp and the peel were examined for hypot ensive activity. Water-soluble extracts were prepared from these components of the fruit and injected into anaesthetised rats. Various cardiovascular parameters were measured including heart rate, mean arterial pressure (MAP) and several ECC intervals. We report that all extracts tested produced a f all in blood pressure with little change in ECG intervals. Extract B produc ed the least change in heart rate with a fall in MAP of approximately 23 mn mHg. Changes in heart rate with all extracts appeared to be minimal as art ED25 value could only be determined for extract A, and ED10 values could no t be evaluated for extracts C and D. The mechanism(s) by which these extrac ts produce their hypotensive effects could not be determined in these preli minary experiments. However, it appears not to involve direct effects on ca rdiac tissue. This conclusion is based on the finding that it rook a minimu m of 10 to 15 seconds for the hypotensive action to manifest post bolus. Fu ture experiments will be aimed at delineating the mechanism(s) involved in decreasing MAP.