Active principle of oleander plant is-
**Core Concept**
The oleander plant, known for its ornamental value, contains a toxic compound that is responsible for its medicinal and poisonous properties. This compound belongs to a class of natural products that have been used for various purposes, including as cardiac glycosides.
**Why the Correct Answer is Right**
The active principle of the oleander plant is a cardiac glycoside called oleandrin. Oleandrin works by inhibiting the sodium-potassium ATPase pump in cardiac cells, leading to an increase in intracellular sodium and calcium levels. This results in increased contractility of the heart muscle and a subsequent increase in cardiac output. However, at higher doses, oleandrin can lead to digitalis toxicity, characterized by arrhythmias, nausea, and vomiting.
**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
* **Option A:** This option is incorrect as it is not a known active principle of the oleander plant.
* **Option B:** This option is incorrect as it is a different plant species altogether, and its active principles are not related to oleandrin.
* **Option C:** This option is incorrect as it is a class of compounds that are not specifically associated with the oleander plant.
**Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
It is essential to note that oleandrin is highly toxic and can cause significant morbidity and mortality if ingested in large quantities. Therefore, it is crucial to identify and manage patients who have ingested oleander plant material promptly and effectively.
**Correct Answer: C. Oleandrin.**