Abstract

The aqueous and ethanolic extracts derived from cigarettes (Morven Gold) were screened for chemicals, spasmogenic and spasmolytic activities. Aqueous extract showed strong relaxant activity that is, 92% against KCl induced contractions while ethanolic extract was found to be moderately spasmolytic (70%). Ethanolic extract was also found to have a strong spasmogenic activity, while aqueous extract depress the spasmogenic activity of pilocarpine induced contractions. Thus, the ethanoilc extract was found to be more efficient for spasmogenic activity while aqueous extract was noted to be more efficient for spasmolytic activity. The chemicals found in sufficient quantity in both the extracts were saponin and glycosides. It was also noted that tannins were present only in ethanolic extract in excess quantity. The research indicated clearly that cigarette is a good spasmolytic agent while the ethanolic extract has spasmogenic activity. Further studies are necessary to elucidate its exact mechanism of action.

Key words: Sapsmogenic, spasmolytic, chemical screening, cigarette.