Preliminary Phytochemical, Acute Oral Toxicity and Anticonvulsant Activity of the Seed Extract of Brassica juncea

Aims: The aim of this research is to investigate the preliminary phytochemical properties, acute oral toxicity and anticonvulsant activity of the seed extract of Brassica juncea (B. juncea).

Study Design: Qualitative analysis of for phytochemicals was performed. Experimental mouse model was contributed for toxicity test and anticonvulsant activity of pentylenetetrazole (PTZ) -induced seizure.

Place and Duration of Study: Applied Biochemistry Laboratory, Department of Applied Biochemistry, School of Biotechnology, International University, Vietnam National University, Ho Chi Minh, between June 2014 and December 21014.

Methodology: Phytochemicals from the methanol seed extract were screened by standard methods. Acute oral toxicity study was conducted as per Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) 425 guidelines while anticonvulsant activity was assessed against PTZ-induced seizure in mice. The effect of the extract at dose levels of 200, 300, 400 and 500 mg/kg body weight was evaluated in an experimental mice model, using diazepam as positive control (5 mg/kg, p.o). At the end of the observation period, the animals were sacrificed and their brains were removed for histopathological examination.

Results: The phytochemical study showed the presence of alkaloids, flavonoids, saponins, tannins, terpenoids, and phenolic compounds in the seeds of B. juncea. The Acute oral toxicity study indicated that the extract was safe and non-toxic to mice up to 5000 mg/kg body weight. The extract significantly delayed the latency of convulsion (p ˂ 0.05) induced by PTZ at the dose of 500 mg/kg p.o. The extract also reduced the frequency of convulsion and provided up to 100% protection (500 mg/kg p.o) against death.

Conclusion: The data suggest that the methanol seed extract of B. juncea is safe and possesses anticonvulsant activity in PTZ-induced seizure in mice.