ANALGESIC AND ANTI-CONVULSANT ACTIVITIES OF CYPERUS ROTUNDUS (LINN.)

Abstract

Introduction: Cyperus rotundus Linn. (Family- Cyperaceae) is an important medicinal plant found in upland and paddy fields in temperate to tropical regions throughout India, China, Pakistan, Europe, France, Sri Lanka, Switzerland and Austria. The scented rhizomes of Cyperus rotundus posses tremendous pharmacological potentials. Objective: To determine analgesic and anticonvulsant activities of the methanolic extracts of rhizomes of Cyperus rotendus. Materials and Methods: Rhizomes were extracted in methanol using Soxhlet apparatus and concentrated under vaccume. The Analgesic activity was performed on rats by Tail flick method using Analgesiometer. Anticonvulsant activity was carried out using Maximal Electroshock (MES) method in mice. Results: The methanolic extract (500 and 1000mg/kg body weight.) showed significant analgesic effect (p<0.01) when compared with control and standard Diclofenac Sodium. Cyperus rotundus at 100mg/kg and 150 mg/kg body weight, i.p. produced a significant (p<0.01) effects in the extensor phase, 5.6530.187^** sec, 3.18 sec respectively and recovery 20.1330.620^** and 9.890.135^** (P<0.001) sec, compared to control 8.2710.142 and 198.463.465 sec, respectively. The Metanolic extract of Cyperus rotundus at doses 100mg/kg and 150mg/kg didn’t abolish the hind limb extension, but decreased it by nearly half the extension time in control. Conclusion: The present study revealed that methanolic extract of rhizomes of Cyperus rotundus possess significant analgesic and anticonvulsant activity and can be employed to develop future medicines for treatment of diseases like Epilepsy.