Supercritical fluid extraction and analysis of compounds from Clivia miniata for uterotonic activity.

In this descriptive study, the superciritical fluid extract of the roots of Clivia miniata L. was tested for uterotonic activity using guinea pig uterine smooth muscle in vitro. Extraction was performed with water modified supercritical carbon dioxide at 400 atm and 80 degrees C. The uterine contractions induced by this extract were compared to those induced by the aqueous extract and found to be active at lower doses. The active compounds were isolated and the structures elucidated by spectroscopic and chromatographic techniques. Both linoleic acid and 5-hydroxymethyl-2-furancarboxaldehyde isolated from the extract were found to induce muscle contractions individually. The pharmacological mode of action of 5-hydroxymethyl-2-furancarboxaldehyde was assessed using two receptor agonists and antagonists. This compound was found to mediate its effect through cholinergic receptors.