Effects of standardized [6]-gingerol extracts and [6]-gingerol on isolated ileum and lower esophageal sphincter contractions in mice.

Standardized [6]-gingerol extracts were prepared by microwave-assisted extraction using 20% v/v glycerin in ethanol and 20% v/v eutectic mixture of sucrose and citric acid in ethanol as alternative green solvents. The extracts obtained from 20% v/v glycerin in ethanol (GEE) and 20% v/v eutectic mixture of sucrose and citric acid in ethanol (EMSCEE) were standardized by HPLC to contain 17.0 mg/g of [6]-gingerol. The effects of the extracts on mouse ileal contractions via M3 and 5-HT3 receptors as well as lower esophageal sphincter (LES) contraction were determined in vitro relative to the marker compound, [6]-gingerol. [6]-Gingerol, GEE and EMSCEE demonstrated significant and concentration-dependent inhibitory effects on ileal contraction in mice via M3 and 5-HT3 receptors in a noncompetitive manner. In addition, [6]-gingerol and EMSCEE tend to increase the LES tone. These results indicated the potential of GEE and EMSCEE to attenuate nausea and vomiting and might be used as nutraceuticals.