ABSTRACT
Reproductive health complications, including preterm labor and miscarriage, often require pharmacological interventions to regulate uterine contractility. Phyllanthus amarus, a medicinal plant widely used in traditional medicine, has been suggested to possess smooth muscle relaxant properties. However, its potential tocolytic (uterine relaxation) effect remains underexplored. Consequently, the effect of ethanol extract of the aerial parts of Phyllanthus amarus on the uterine smooth muscle of non-gravid female Wistar rats was investigated in this study.
This experimental study utilized uterine tissues isolated from female Wistar rats. The tissues were mounted in an organ bath containing physiological solution and exposed to cumulative concentrations of Phyllanthus amarus extract. Uterine contractility was recorded using a transducer, and the frequency and amplitude of spontaneous contractions were analyzed. The data were statistically evaluated using one-way ANOVA, with significance set at p < 0.05.
Phyllanthus amarus extract significantly reduced both the amplitude and frequency of spontaneous uterine contractions in a dose-dependent manner (p < 0.05). The extract exhibited a marked inhibitory effect at higher concentrations, suggesting a potential direct relaxant action on uterine smooth muscle.
The findings indicate that Phyllanthus amarus possesses tocolytic properties, supporting its potential as a natural therapeutic agent for managing uterine hyperactivity. Further research is needed to elucidate the underlying pharmacological mechanisms, assess its safety profile, and explore its clinical applicability in conditions such as preterm labor
