Evaluation of Anti-epileptic Effect of Sinapis alba using Maximal Electroshock Seizure Model

Abstract

Background: Epilepsy is a prevalent neurological disorder, prompting an ongoing quest for new therapeutic agents. Sinapis alba, commonly known as yellow mustard, has garnered interest for its potential medicinal properties. This study aimed to assess the anti-convulsant potential of Sinapis alba in rats. Methods: Wistar albino rats were categorized into 5 distinct experimental groups (six each) : a normal control, a disease control, a group administered Sinapis alba seed oil (200mg/kg body weight), another given sodium valproate (300mg/kg body weight), and a combination group receiving both Sinapis alba seed oil and sodium valproate (150mg/kg body weight each). Antioxidant markers were subsequently extracted from the brain samples, and cresyl violet staining was employed to discern pathological changes. Results: The findings revealed a significant diminution in the durations of flexion, clonic convulsion, and stupor in the test, standard, and combination groups in contrast with the disease control. Additionally, the duration of tonic hind limb extension (THLE) noted a substantial decrease in the Sinapis alba group, sodium valproate group, and combination group. Moreover, the administration of Sinapis alba seed oil led to an elevation in antioxidant levels and a concomitant reduction in lipid peroxide levels. Intriguingly, a synergistic effect on generalized tonic-clonic seizures was observed upon integrating mustard oil with sodium valproate. Conclusion: Our research suggests that Sinapis alba seed extract demonstrates promising anti-epileptic properties and stands as a potential supplementary drug for managing generalized tonic-clonic seizures.