Abstract

Introduction: This investigation was carried out to analyze the central nervous system (CNS) depressant effect of the plant Cleome rutidosperma extract, after it was found to have been used by the local people in the Philippine for that purpose.


Methods: In this study presented below, the CNS depressant effects of the extract was evaluated in in vivo mice models; using the standard procedures of Open field, Hole cross and Thiopental sodium induced sleeping time tests.


Results: Using two test extracts at a concentration of 100 and 200 mg/kg, it was seen that the extracts showed significant (p< 0.01) dose dependent suppression of motor activity in both open field and hole cross test, 4.67 ± 0.68** and 3.00 ± 0.45**, respectively at 200 mg/kg. It also showed significant (p< 0.01) decrease in the time for the onset of sleep (5.00 ± 0.45 at 200 mg/kg); and an increase in sleeping duration (70.20 ± 0.66 at 200 mg/kg), when compared with the positive control Thiopental sodium.


Conclusion: Overall, the study demonstrates that the extracts used, showed promising CNS depressant effect. Further study needs to be carried out on the extract to isolate the active constituent, so that it can be assessed for therapeutic use.

Key words: CNS, anxiolytic, hole cross test, thiopental, motor neuron activity