Foxgloves are scientifically known as Digitalis purpurea. The use of an extract of Digitalis purpurea is beneficial for the treatment of heart diseases as it contains cardiac glycosides. Digoxin is one of the pure forms of Digitalis, and an extract of this is used to strengthen and enhance cardiac contractility. It is also used as an antiarrhythmic agent. It is used to control the heart rate. It also controls atrial fibrillation (particular if it is irregular and fast) and cure patients suffering from heart failure.
Digitalis inhibits the sodium-potassium ATPase and increases the quantity of intracellular calcium. A larger amount of calcium in the cells implies a positive inotropic effect and a vagal effect on the parasympathetic nervous system. It is used as a cure for relapses in cardiac arrhythmias. It also slows down the ventricular rate in patients who are suffering from atrial fibrillation. Digitalis does not work effectively if the person has a high sympathetic nervous system drive.
Digitalis inhibits the sodium-potassium ATPase and increases the quantity of intracellular calcium. A larger amount of calcium in the cells implies a positive inotropic effect and a vagal effect on the parasympathetic nervous system. It is used as a cure for relapses in cardiac arrhythmias. It also slows down the ventricular rate in patients who are suffering from atrial fibrillation. Digitalis does not work effectively if the person has a high sympathetic nervous system drive.