Further studies on the anticonvulsant potential of extracts from Ceiba pentandra (L.) Gaertn in a rat model of convulsion

Background: The leaf and stem extracts of Ceiba pentandra (L.) Gaertn. (Malvaceae) has been documented traditionally for the management of convulsions. However, only the anticonvulsant effect of the ethanolic leaf extract has been studied. Aim and Objectives: This current study was to investigate the anticonvulsant properties of extracts from various parts of C. pentandra to justify their folkloric use and also to ascertain the most potent extract for further study. Materials and Methods: The aqueous leaf extract (CPALE), aqueous stem extract (CPASE), ethanolic leaf extract (CPELE) and ethanolic stem extract (CPESE) of C. pentandra were evaluated in the pentylenetetrazole (PTZ)-induced convulsion test in rats. Also, a combination of CPASE and carbamazepine (CZP) was investigated for any potential pharmacologic interactions (synergy, additivity or antagonism). Results: The various extracts (30-300 mg/kg, p.o.) demonstrated varying degrees of anticonvulsant effects by significantly delaying the onset and reducing the frequency and duration of PTZ-induced convulsions in a dose-dependent manner. CPESE and CPASE were the most active of the four extracts while CPELE was the least. Again, isobolographic analysis of combination of the CPASE and carbamazepine demonstrated synergistic activity in reducing the frequency of convulsions. Conclusion: The present findings justify the folkloric use of C. pentandra and the ethanolic and aqueous stem extracts possess the most active anticonvulsant properties.