The Effects of Ginger Oils on Rat Uterine Contraction

Ginger, the rhizome of Zingiber officinale Roscoe (Zingiberaceae), has been extensively studied for its pharmacological activities [1]. It produced inhibitory effects on vascular and gut contractility [2, 3]. However, its effects on uterine contractility have not been elucidated. The aims of the study were to investigate the effects of ginger on rat uterine contraction. We examined the effects of ginger oils on phasic contractions arising either spontaneously or PGF_2α stimulation and the mode of action. Ginger oils were obtained by water distillation. Rats were killed by asphyxiation with CO2 and longitudinal uterine smooth muscles isolated. Isometric force was measured and the effects of ginger oils studied. The results showed that at each concentration (10–100 microL/100mL) ginger oils reduced spontaneous contractions, and that the effect was dose dependent. The PGF_2α-induced contractions were significantly reduced by ginger oils. Increases in external calcium concentration completely reversed the relaxant effects of ginger oils. In conclusion, ginger oils are potent inhibitors of phasic activity in rat uterus, irrespective of how it is produced, and our data suggest their effects lie at the surface membrane.

References: 1. Langner, E. et al. (1998), Adv. Ther. 15: 25–44. 2. Hashimoto, K. et al. (2002), Planta Med. 68: 936–939. 3. Borrellia, F. et al. (2004), Life Sci. 74: 2889–2896.