The cardio-vascular system being the basis of life along with the respiratory system has always been the centre of attention for researchers. Efforts have been made for ages to prop up the failing heart or to regulate its normal beat & rhythm so that life could be extended. A major source of drugs for the heart is the plant kingdom. With this in mind a saponin from a plant called Albizzia chinensis Merr. was taken up to profile its cardiovascular activities. Materials and Methods: Albichinoside

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... (ALB), the test substance was evaluated for its cardio-vascular activities in dogs, rabbits, rats and frogs. The parameters were its effects on the rate, rhythm and tone of heart, blood pressure and studies on the blood vessels. Results: The test substance produced hypotension, increase in tone & force of contraction of the heart, and dilatation of the blood vessels, without any effect on the heart rate. Conclusions: The compound showed immediate and prolonged hypotension along with cardiotonic effect and vasodilatation.