In vitro pharmacological investigations of Sapindus trifoliatus in various migraine targets.

Phytotherapies have offered alternative sources of therapy for migraine and gained much importance in prophylactic treatment. The aqueous extract of pericarp of fruits of Sapindus trifoliatus Linn (ST), family Sapindaceae was evaluated for its affinity for 5-HT(1B/1D) receptors in rabbit saphenous vein, alpha-adrenoceptors in rabbit aorta, GABA receptors in guinea pig ileum, 5-HT(2B) receptors in rat fundus and vanilloid receptors in guinea pig trachea. The calcium blocking effect was studied in rabbit aorta while the modulatory role of ST on platelet serotonin release was evaluated in human platelets. The aqueous extract of Sapindus trifoliatus exhibited significant 5-HT(2B) receptor inhibition and moderate platelet serotonin release inhibition.