Abstract
Non-polar crude fractions (Ho-0 and Ho-1) of an acetone extract of Psoralea corylifolia seeds were administrated orally to untreated and experimental rachitic rats. In the
biological screening of the fractions, Ho-1, an elution with n-hexane-ethyl acetate by column chromatography over silica gel of the acetone extract,
untreated rats showed a significant elevation of the serum inorganic phosphorus and
revealed histomorphometrically a significant increase in bone calcification. When
Ho-0, an elution with n-hexane, and Ho-1 were administrated to the rachitic rats fed with a vitamin D-free,
low-phosphorus diet, they not only increased significantly the concentration of inorganic
phosphorus in serum, but also significantly promoted bone calcification. Administration
of 30 mg/kg of Ho-1 resulted in a marked decrease of osteoid volume and improvement
of hyperosteoidosis in rachitic rats. These results suggested that Ho-0 and Ho-1 are
useful as a remedy for bone fracture, osteomalacia, osteoporosis, and related conditions.
Key words
Psoralea corylifolia
- Leguminosae - bone calcification - inorganic phosphorus - rachitis
