Evaluation of anticonvulsant activity of Harpagophytum procumbens leaves (Devil's claw) in Swiss albino mice

Introduction: The aim of this study was to examine the anticonvulsant properties of an ethanolic extract derived from the leaves of Harpagophytum procumbens (commonly known as devil's claw) in Swiss albino mice. Materials and Methods: The ethanolic extract of H. procumbens leaves (EHPL) was administered orally at doses of 400 and 800 mg/kg body weight, and two animal models were used to assess its anticonvulsant activity: the maximal electroshock (MES) and pentylenetetrazole (PTZ) models of convulsions. The duration of tonic phase of hind limb extension and extended seizure latency period were recorded. Results: The results showed that the EHPL at a dosage of 400 mg/kg significantly reduced the duration of tonic convulsions in the hind limbs in the MES-induced seizures model, while EHPL at 800 mg/kg significantly increased the latency period of clonic convulsions in the PTZ-induced seizures model. Conclusion: These findings suggest that EHPL may be useful in managing grand mal epilepsy and absence seizures as it displayed significant antiepileptic activity in both models at 400 and 800 mg/kg p.o. The study is important as it will help to identify new sources of anticonvulsant drugs and contribute to the development of alternative treatment options for seizure disorders. The following core competencies are addressed in this article: Medical knowledge.