Preliminary phyto-chemical investigations and antiepileptic activity of Trema orientalis (Linn.) Extracts

The antiepileptic potential of the petroleum ether (PETO) and methanolic extracts (METO) of the whole plant (roots, leaves, stem, and bark) of Trema orientalis (family: Ulmaceae) was evaluated using different experimental models of epilepsy in rats and mice. Materials and Methods: The anti-epileptic activity of the PETO and METO was evaluated using Picrotoxin, Isoniazid, and NMDA induced convulsion models. The brain GABA was also estimated in Picrotoxin induced convulsion model. The amount of the Lupeol present in PETO was estimated by HPTLC. Results: Preliminary phytochemical screening of the extracts revealed the presence of phytosterols, triterpenoids, Fixed oils & Fats, Tannins, phenolics, flavonoids, and carbohydrates. The anti-epileptic activity of PETO and METO atdoses of 250 mg/kg and 500 mg/kg showed a significant increase (p˂ 0.001) in the onset of convulsions in the models used. The extracts also showed a significant increase in the brain GABA levels in the doses used. The amount of lupeol present in PETO was estimated to be 8.76 µg/ml. Conclusion: The PETO and METO showed significant anti-epileptic activity in the doses used mediated through an increase in the brain GABA levels.