Matrine

Abstract

Matrine is an alkaloid extracted by organic solvents from the dry roots, plants, and fruits of kushen (Sophora flavescens Ait). Matrine has significant effects of negative frequency and positive inotropic action, achieving the role of an antiarrhythmic. Moreover, matrine has an inhibitory effect on tumor cells by inhibiting growth and proliferation and inducing apoptosis. In the clinical setting, matrine injection was used for chronic active hepatitis, and a suppository was used for trichomoniasis or Candida vaginitis and chronic cervicitis. Improvements in the modern formulation of matrine can improve its clinical application.