On the isolated cardiac preparation, a dry extract of the fruit with high γ-pyrone content increases blood flow to the cardiac vessels in the short term. In rats, visnadine in particular has a vasodilatory effect by blocking calcium channels.
Khellin and visnagin and their synthetic derivatives have anticonvulsant effects.
Bishop’s weed: side effects
Due to the khellin contained in bishop’s weed, a weak phototoxic effect of the fruits has been demonstrated. In isolated cases, there was an increase in various liver enzymes and severe liver damage.
Evidence of other side effects such as pseudoallergic reactions and insomnia have led to the drug being practically irrelevant today.
Because furanochromones make the skin more sensitive to light, intensive sunbathing and UV exposure should be avoided during use.
