Evaluation of the anticonvulsant properties of the ethanol extract of Detarium senegalense leaves in mice

Evelyn Ogochukwu Nwachukwu, Godwin Christian Akuodor *, Joseph Olanrewaju Oyindamola, Kingsley Chimsorom Chilaka, Cajetan Elochukwu ILO, Ejeatuluchukwu Obi and Prince Chiazor Unekwe

Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, Faculty of Basic Clinical Sciences, Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Nnewi Campus.
 
Research Article
International Journal of Biological and Pharmaceutical Sciences Archive, 2022, 03(02), 067–073.
Article DOI: 10.53771/ijbpsa.2022.3.2.0049
Publication history: 
Received on 25 March 2022; revised on 04 May 2022; accepted on 06 May 2022
 
Abstract: 
Detarium senegalense, J.F. Gmelin (Fabaceae) is used in Nigerian folk medicine to treat different diseases including epilepsy, microbial infections, gastrointestinal diseases and inflammation; its efficacy is widely acclaimed among communities in South Eastern Nigeria. The leaf extract (100 mg/kg, 200 mg/kg and 400 mg/kg) was evaluated for its anticonvulsant activity in mice. Three different study models were used; pentylenetetrazole (PTZ), brucine and isoniazid (INH) convulsion methods. The acute toxicity study and the phytochemical analysis of the extract were also determined. The extract produced significant (p<0.05 and p<0.01) dose-dependent delay in onset, frequency and duration of seizures in mice in the three models of convulsion which is comparable to the standard anticonvulsant drug. The oral acute toxicity test was greater than 5000 mg/kg in mice. The phytochemical screening revealed that D. senegalense leaf extract contains bioactive principles that are relevant in the management of seizure disorders. These findings suggest that D. senegalense leaf extract possesses anticonvulsant properties and justifies its use in traditional medicine.
 
Keywords: 
Anticonvulsant activity; Detarium senegalense leaf; Pentylenetetrazole; Brucine; Isoniazid; Mice
 
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