Pharmacological effects of
Shikonin and
Acetylshikonin, pigment components of Shikon were studied in mice, rats, guinea pigs and rabbits. The only difference between the chemical structures of the two pigments is that
Acetylshikonin has the acetyl radical, while
Shikonin does not. Though the activity was slightly different between the two compounds, the pharmacological effect of
Shikonin was similar to that of
Acetylshikonin. As the two pigments were extracted by
ether from Shikon, systemic administration of these pigments showed the same effect as that of
ether extract of Shikon as outlined in the first report(1). These compounds had no effect on blood coagulation, but inhibited the
anticoagulant effect of
heparin in rats. Topical application of both pigments (50 mg of 0.1%
ointment) inhibited an increased vascular permeability and acute
edema induced by
histamine, anti-rat rabbit serum and heat. The activity was similar to that of 0.1%
phenylbutazone ointment. On the other hand, these pigments increased proliferation of
granuloma tissue in the cotton pellet method and promoted would healing in rats. The results suggest that
Shiunko, a main prescription of Shikon, is an effective
ointment for cutaneous
injuries.