Pepper fruit (Dennettia tripetala [annonaceae]) seed inhibits uterine contractions via blockade of intracellular calcium release and extracellular calcium influx in ex vivo studies

Dennettia tripetala (DT) is a tree found in rain forest belt of Nigeria, Cameroon and Ivory Coast. The seed commonly used preparing food for mothers after delivery because it believed to play role postpartum uterine contraction. There however no scientific evidence validating this claim. Hence, the study aimed investigate effects DT on non-pregnant pregnant uterus using mouse model. dried seeds were macerated methanol extract investigated tissues isolated from mice. was examined spontaneous contraction, contractions induced by oxytocin, high potassium chloride (KCl)-induced depolarization. Its effect also evaluated calcium ion (Ca2+) release internal stores. suppressed contractility both concentration-dependent manner. It significantly inhibited elicited KCl oxytocin-induced uterus. oxytocin Ca2+-free medium has provided that relaxing possibly blocking intracellular Ca2+ released influx extracellular Ca2+. result shown benefit reducing risk post-partum hemorrhage, however, may have potential benefits management dysmenorrhea preterm labour non-gravid gravid uteri respectively.