The effects of Hange-shashin-to on the content of prostaglandin E2 and water absorption in the large intestine of rats.

Abstract

The effects of Hange-shashin-to (TJ-14) were examined regarding the amount of prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) and the water absorbing capacity in the large intestine of rats. Repeated oral administration of TJ-14 at doses of 125 to 1000 mg/kg revealed a significant decrease in PGE2 content in the colonic mucosa and also the promotion of colonic water absorption in a dose dependent manner. However, there was no remarkable influence on the concentrations of aldosterone and electrolytes in the serum, even at 1000 mg/kg. From these results, it was considered that some of the anti-diarrheal effects of TJ-14 might be based on a repression of the increase in the amount of PGE2 as well as promotion of the water absorbing capacity of the large intestine. Moreover, it was also suggested that it is possible, by the application of TJ-14, to prevent the loss of water content caused by diarrhea.