Abstract:

Objective: The aims of this study were to research the physico-chemical properties and nutrient contents of
Radix Asparagi seed oil, to observe the sedative-hypnotic effects in mice and to evaluate its acute toxicity. Methods: The
physicochemical properties of Radix Asparagi seed oil were determined according to the Chinese national standard method. Its
unsaponifiable matters were detected by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS). The contents of mineral elements
were measured by atomic absorption spectrophotometry (AAS). KM mice were used to evaluate its acute toxicity and to
observe its effects on spontaneous motion and synergism with pentobarbital sodium at a subliminal dose in mice. Results:
The contents of moisture, ash, crude fat and vitamin E of the seed oil were determined to be 1.87 g/100 g, 0.15 g/100 g,
96.6 g/100 g and 405.55 μg/g, respectively. The results of GC-MS analysis showed that the unsaponifiable matters mainly
contained sterol compounds (41.8%) and hydrocarbon compound (17%), etc. A variety of minerals were detected, with
sodium, magnesium and calcium being dominant at levels of 297.92, 216.88 and 145 μg/g, respectively. When administered
at doses of 4.65 and 2.33 g/kg, the oil had obvious inhibitory effect on spontaneous motion in mice, and greatly increased the
number of sleeping mice induced by pentobarbital sodium at subliminal dose. During the 14-day observation period after a
maximum single dose of the seed oil, no mice died and no abnormality in body weight or motion was observed. Conclusion:
Radix Asparagi seed oil is rich in nutrients, has the sedative-hypnotic effect and is of high safety.

Key words: Radix Asparagi seed oil, nutritional components, sedative-hypnotic effect, acute toxicity