Publication:

Evaluation of anticonvulsant activity of aqueous extract of Adhatoda vasica leaves by MES model in rats

Background Epilepsy is the commonest neurological condition affecting people of all ages, race and social class. The present study was taken up to evaluate the anticonvulsant effect of aqueous extract of leaves of Adhatoda vasica in rats. To evaluate the effect of aqueous extract of Adhatoda vasica leaves on maximal electroshock model in albino rats and to compare the effect of aqueous extract of Adhatoda vasica leaves with standard dose of Phenytoin on Maximal electro shock model.

Methods Anticonvulsant activity of aqueous extract of Adhatoda vasica was analysed using MES (Maximal electroshock) model. Phenytoin (25mg/kg) as standard for Maximal electroshock, and two doses of aqueous extract of Adhatoda vasica (100mg/kg and 200mg/kg) were used as test drugs. Parameters observed in MES were abolition of hind limb tonic extension (HLTE) and time taken to regain righting reflex.

Results In MES model, control group showed 0% protection and standard phenytoin group showed 100% protection. Aqueous extract of Adhatoda vasica at 100mg/kg and 200mg/kg showed 33.33% and 50% protection from seizures respectively. The mean duration of time to regain righting reflex was significantly reduced in Adhatoda vasica groups when compared to control group (p 0.05) were obtained.

Conclusions Aqueous extract of leaves of Adhatoda vasica has shown significant anticonvulsant action in MES model.