ABSTRACT

The aim of the present study was to evaluate the sedative and anxiolytic property of the leaves of the Dolichandrone atrovirens (D. atrovirens) The chloroform and ethanolic extracts of leaves were analysed for their phytochemical constituents by phytochemical screening and thin layer chromatography studies. The acute toxicity in albino mice showed no clinical signs of toxicity in the 2000 mg kg-1 dose administration orally. The extracts were orally administered to the group of animals to study the neuropharmacology activity, such as sleep induced by drugs methods, spontaneous motor co-ordination, locomotor activity, hole board test and light dark test. The extracts significantly (p<0.001) prolonged the sleeping time of mice, reduced motor co-ordination and anxiety. The results obtained from these experimental models confirmed that chloroform and ethanolic extracts of leaves of D. atrovirens possess central nervous depressant activity and anxiolytic activity. The ethanolic extract shows better activity compared to chloroform extract.