The ethanolic extract of the plant was found to reduce total serum cholesterol, triglycerides, phospholipids and nonesterified fatty acids after oral administration in hyperlipidaemic rats. Besides, high-density lipoprotein was elevated in the animals. The ethanolic extract of the plant when administered to rats through gastric intubation at different time intervals showed enhanced neuro-peptide synthesis. The alcoholic extract of the whole plant depresses the amphibian and mammalian myocardium through negative ionotropic effect. The extract had a spasmolytic activity on the smooth muscles of isolated rabbit ileum and isolated rat uterus. In clinical studies, a decoction of the drug reduced arterial blood pressure. Potentiation of cognitive process (memory) by the drug is reported to be due to an increased supply of proteins to hippocampus, thus enhancing the learning process. It also reduces spontaneous motor activity and fighting response.

Marketed product

Ayurvedic: Brahma ghrta, Agastyaharitaki, Manasmitra Vataka, Gorocanadi Vati.

Proprietary: Abana, Anxocare (heart care)

Lehsun

Lehsun consists of the fresh ripe bulbs of Allium sativum, Family: Liliaceae.

Synonym

Porvium sativum Rohb.

Native to Central Asia it spread to the Mediterranean region and today it is cultivated worldwide. It is commonly found all over India. It grows wild and is also extensively cultivated on account of its use as a condiment and spice. A biennial it is cultivated as a perennial.

Common vernacular names

English: garlic

Sanskrit: lahsuna

Hindi: lahsun

Tamil: vellai poondu

Telugu: tellagadda