The decoction of leaves of Phyllanthus discoideus possesses anticonvulsant and sedative properties in mice

Abstract

The aim of this study is to scientifically look for sedative and anticonvulsant properties of the decoction of Phyllanthus discoideus Baill (P. discoideus) in mice. The in vivo models of epilepsy were used to evaluate the anticonvulsant properties of the plant. These models were maximal electroshock-, N-methyl-D-aspartate-, pentylenetetrazol-, isonicotinic hydrazide- acid and strychnine- induced convulsions or turning behavior in mice. The potentiation of sleep induced by diazepam in mice was used for the determination of the sedative properties. Four doses of the plant in the decoction were used: 17.1, 42.7, 85.5 and 171 mg kg-1. The decoction of the leaves of P. discoideus strongly increased the total sleep time (p<0.001) induced by diazepam and precipitated its onset (p<0.001). The decoction also protected mice against maximal electroshock- (p<0.001), pentylenetetrazol- (p<0.001), strychnine- (p<0.001) and N-methyl-D-aspartate- induced seizures or turning behavior (p<0.001). Finally, the decoction increased the latency to the onset of seizure in isonicotinic hydrazide acid test (p<0.001). In conclusion the decoction of P. discoideus posses anticonvulsant and sedative properties in mice. The presence of these properties could explain its use in traditional medicine in Cameroon in the treatment of insomnia and epilepsy. © 2009 Asian Network for Scientific Information.