An Experimental Evaluation of Anticonvulsant Activity of Ethanolic Extract of <i>Vitex negundo</i> Linn. on Validated Animal Model

Abstract

Vitex negundo Linn, belonging to the verbenaceae family and commonly known as 'Nirgundi', is a significant medicinal plant. This woody, aromatic shrub can grow into a small tree and typically features 3 or 5 leaves on quadrangular branches. It produces bluish-purple flowers arranged in branched tomentose cymes. In addition to its various medicinal properties, it is reputed to have anticonvulsant effects. The objective of this study is to analyze the anti-convulsant effects of an ethanolic extract of Vitex negundo (EEVN) with model of Maximum Electroshock-induced Seizure (MES) induction. 30 albino rats, each weighing between 120-150 grams, were divided into five groups of 6 animals each. Group I is administered normal saline (0.5 ml p.o), Group II received Phenobarbitone (10 mg/kg body weight, i.p), and Groups III, IV, and V were given different dosages of EEVN (50, 100, and 200 mg/kg body weight, p.o respectively). Convulsions were induced in all groups by applying a maximal electric shock of 150 mA for 0.2 seconds using an electro-convulsiometer, 1 hour after administering the control, standard, and test drugs. The onset and duration of tonic hind limb extension (THLE) and the percentage of protection were recorded. In the MES model, EEVNF at doses of 50 mg/kg, 100 mg/kg, and 200 mg/kg significantly (p<0.001) reduces the onset and reduced the duration of THLE compared to the standard drug. The Vitex negundo demonstrated anticonvulsant properties in the maximal electric shock-induced convulsions in experimental animals.