Preliminary phytochemical, GC-MS analysis and antiepileptic studies on the methanol leaf extract of <i>Bixa orellana</i> (bixaceae)

Abstract

Background and aim: Epilepsy is a public health challenge, affecting up to 50 million people worldwide.  In sub-Saharan  Africa alone, 5.4 million people mainly 20-49 years are affected. Adverse effects and high cost limit use of conventional therapies. The aim of this study was to evaluate the anti-epileptic properties of Bixa orellana and chemically characterize its constituents.

Methods: Twenty-five mice were divided into five groups (n = 5). Negative Control group I received 10  ml/kg tween 80  in addition to food and water ad libitum. Groups II, III and IV received oral doses of leaf  methanol extract (200, 400 and  800 mg/kg, respectively) plus Isoniazid. Positive control group V received  Sodium valproate (30 mg/kg b.w. per oral) plus Isoniazid. Animals were observed for myoclonic seizures,  latency to convulsion and death. Phytochemical analyses and gas chromatography-mass spectroscopy analysis were carried out.

Results: B. orellana significantly (p < 0.001) increased mean onset of seizure in all treatment groups  compared to  negative control. Mean onset for control (3.35±1.00 minutes) was incomparable to extract-treated groups (19.00±1.22,  20.25±4.27, and 20.00±2.54 minutes), respectively. GC/MS analysis showed  the presence of aliphatic compounds  (35.16%), ester (21.50%), aldehydes (14.97%), fatty acids (13.61%)  and polyphenolics (9.33%) which accounted for 95% of  the compounds. 

Conclusion: B. orellana increased the latency to onset of Isoniazid induced seizure and this effect is  believed to be due  to the presence of secondary metabolites like alkaloids, tannins, flavonoids, and saponins  present.