Evaluation of Anticonvulsant Activity of Streblus asper Lour Using Experimental Lab Animals

About 50 million individuals worldwide suffer from epilepsy, with low- and middle-income nations accounting for 80% of cases. Despite the availability of drugs, around 75% of patients do not obtain proper diagnosis or care. Plant-based medicines are becoming more popular as a result of issues including side effects and drug resistance. This study examined the anticonvulsant and antioxidant qualities of ethanolic leaf extract from Streblus asper Lour., a plant known for its neuroprotective advantages. Flavonoids, alkaloids, terpenoids, and phenolics—compounds associated with neuroprotective and antioxidant properties—were identified by phytochemical analysis. Tests conducted in vitro, such as DPPH, H2O₂ scavenging, phosphomolybdenum, and reducing power assays, showed that the extract had a moderate to strong ability to neutralize free radicals. The extract was safe at levels up to 2000 mg/kg, according to acute toxicity tests conducted on mice. Pentylenetetrazole (PTZ)-induced seizure models and maximum electroshock (MES) were used to assess the effects of anticonvulsants. Comparable to common medications like phenytoin and diazepam, the extract significantly reduced seizure duration and intensity in a dose-dependent manner. Biochemical investigation showed that treated groups had lower levels of malondialdehyde and higher levels of glutathione and catalase. GC-MS profiling revealed important bioactive substances that could be responsible for the extract's actions, such as phytol and β-caryophyllene. These findings demonstrate the potential of Streblus asper as a natural antioxidant and anticonvulsant, indicating that more study may improve its application in the treatment of epilepsy. Keywords: Streblus asper, Anti-convulsant, Maximal Electroshock, Pentylenetetrazole model, phytochemical, antioxidant assay.