Hypotensive activity of crude extract of marine red alagae, Gracilaria SP. in rats

Hypotensive properties of the crude extract of Sri Lankan marine red algaeGracilaria sp. of the family Graci/aracea were investigated on anaesthetized ratsusing two doses (250 or 500mg/kg) given intraperitoneal/yo The results showthat the crude extract possesses antihypertensive properties. The extract inducedan immediate fall in systolic blood pressure (within 5 min) which was shortlivedwith the lower dose and sustained with the higher dose. The precise modeof the antihypertensive action is uncertain but is likely to be mediated via decreasedsympathetic activity