Effects of Xiang-Fu-Si-Wu Decoction and its main components for dysmenorrhea on uterus contraction

Ethnopharmacological relevanceXiang-Fu-Si-Wu Decoction has been widely used to treat blood stasis syndromes in gynecology diseases, such as primary dysmenorrhea in clinical practice for hundreds of years and show great efficacy. The efficient components and mechanism of action on uterus contraction were seldom reported.Aim of the studyThe present study was conducted to evaluate the inhibitory effects of active fractions and its main bioactive components of Xiang-Fu-Si-Wu Decoction on uterine contraction.Materials and methodsModel of non-pregnant mice uterine contraction induced by oxytocin was used to evaluate activity. Levels of Ca2+ and nitric oxide (NO) in primary dysmenorrheal model mice uterus were also been detected. Components in active fraction were identified and quantified by HPLC-DAD.Results and conclusionsIt was found the active fraction of Xiang-Fu-Si-Wu Decoction may become potential Ca2+ channel blocking agents. Alkaloids like berberine were main active components in bioactive fraction of Xiang-Fu-Si-Wu Decoction for dysmenorrhea on uterus contraction.