Abstract
Pearl-barley (Coix Lacryma-jobi L. var. frumentacea Makino) contains a fatty oil in 5.9-9.8 %. The main ingredient of unsaturated acids in the oil is _??_-octadecenic acid (Bp5 2350), -I call it coixic acid-and the saturated one, palmitic acid. The fatty oil has some effects on blood vessels and respiration, while palmitic acid has special effects on the sympathetic nerve endings of blood vessels, uterus and intestine just like ergotamine. It excites the respiration owing to its stimulant action on the respiratory center and on the motor nerve endings of respiratory tracts. It lessens the fatigue because of the stimulation of the motor activity. In addition it controls the outflow of urine, but has no action on heart directly.
