In vivo Anticancer Efficacy of Cinnamomum tamala Leaf Extract in Ehrlich’s Carcinoma-Bearing BALB/c Mice

Background: The plant Cinnamomum tamala (Buch.-Ham.) T. Nees & C.H. Ebern. (Family: Lauraceae) is commonly known as ‘tejpaat’ in India, has leaves and bark reported to possess anticancer, immunomodulatory, antidiabetic, and diuretic activities. The objective of the present study was to explore the antitumor potential of the chloroform extract of Cinnamomum tamala leaves (CTCE) in BALB/c mice against Ehrlich’s Carcinoma (EC). Methods: Based on preliminary in-vitro cytotoxicity studies, CTCE was selected for an in-vivo antitumor study. Anticancer activity of CTCE was evaluated in BALB/c mice against EC at the doses of 50, 100, 250, and 500 mg/kg body weight. CTCE was administered for 15 consecutive days after induction of the tumor. After 24 hours from the last administered dose and 18 hours of fasting, half of the mice were sacrificed, while the other half was kept alive to evaluate any potential for increasing the lifespan. The antitumor effect of CTCE was assessed by evaluating tumor volume, hematological parameters, and the life span of the EC-bearing host. Results: CTCE showed a significant decrease (p<0.05) in tumor volume and increased the lifespan of EC tumor-bearing mice in a dose-dependent manner compared with the untreated group. The hematological profile, including RBC count, hemoglobin, WBC count, and DLC, was also improved upon treatment. Discussion: C. tamala chloroform extract (CTCE) showed significant anticancer potential by reducing cell viability, inhibiting tumor growth, and prolonging survival without toxicity, suggesting it as a promising source of bioactive compounds for anticancer drug development. Conclusion: The results suggest that CTCE exhibits dose-dependent anticancer activity in comparison with EC control mice and demonstrates significant effects relative to doxorubicin. Its antitumor activity may be attributed to the presence of active constituents within the extract. This investigation also highlights recent advancements in intellectual property rights and patent strategies related to plant-derived anticancer agents.