| Last Updated: Thursday, 4 September, 2003, 15:35 GMT 16:35 UK |
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Viagra rival from African tree | ||
Scientists believe they have found the active ingredient of the violet tree, and have applied for patents. For centuries, the root of the tree has been chewed by South Africans suffering from erectile dysfunction. Some of the profits from any drug could find their way back to the traditional healers who "prescribe" it. The violet tree is found not only in northern South Africa, but also in other African countries. Dr Marion Meyer, head of the botany department at the University of Pretoria, told a South African news agency that chemicals extracted from the root had been tested in the laboratory. When it was added to samples of "smooth muscle" - the type of tissue found in the penis, the muscle relaxed to allow more blood to flow into it. This suggests there is a possibility it could offer an alternative to exisiting drugs Viagra and Levitra, which also work by increasing blood flow into the penis. Blockbuster drugs Dr Meyer said that traditional healers would benefit should a drug based on the violet tree ever be registered. "They are pleased to be getting recognition for something they have been using for centuries." Viagra has proved to be one of the most successful drugs in recent pharmaceutical history, earning millions for maker Pfizer. However, the violet tree will not be competing with it for a while, as it will be at least three years before human trials of the extract can start, and another two years before a drug could be launched. | ||
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