In vitro evaluation of myorelaxant and antispasmodic activity of Emilia sonchifolia

A spasm involves abrupt, involuntary, and typically painful tightening of one muscle or a group of muscles. This study assessed the spasmolytic effects of the ethanolic extract from the entire Emilia sonchifolia plant on smooth muscle via an in vitro approach. Testing occurred on isolated chicken ileum to gauge its antispasmodic efficacy and investigate underlying mechanisms, such as calcium channel inhibition, anticholinergic activity, nitric oxide/cGMP pathway modulation, and broad myorelaxant properties. Incremental Extract doses triggered a concentration-dependent reduction in peak contractions, pointing to blockade of calcium channels and muscarinic receptors, alongside cGMP pathway influence. Initial phytochemical screening revealed alkaloids, flavonoids, carotenoids, steroids, phenols, quinones, saponins, tannins, and glycosides, potentially responsible for these outcomes. In summary, the Extract demonstrates moderate antispasmodic potential, offering promise for managing spasm-associated disorders.