Evaluation of Saponin Rich Fraction of Trigonella Foenum Graecum for Antihypertensive Activity

To separate the saponin rich fraction of Trigonella foenum graecum (TFG) seeds and to evaluate its influence on blood pressure in normal and hypertensive rats. The ethanolic extract of TFG seeds was fractionated with cold diethyl ether to obtain saponin rich fraction. Albino rats of Wistar strain of either sex weighing between 200 to 250 g were used for the hypertension models. Hypertension was induced by 1K-1C Goldblatt method. Systolic BP was measured by Harward non invasive BP apparatus and Biopack data acquisition system. The treatment was given as a single dose at two different dose levels of 100 mg/kg and 200 mg/kg bodyweight. The saponin rich fraction of TFG seeds showed significant, dose dependent antihypertensive activity. The extract did not show any observable decrease in blood pressure in normal non hypertensive rats. The results demonstrate the effectiveness of TFG saponins as a potential treatment for hypertension.