Protective effect of Grewia asiatica leaves extract in animal models of epilepsy and anxiety

Grewia asiatica Linn. is a well-known plant for its nutritional and therapeutic attributes. It has been mentioned in ancient Indian literature as Rasayana due to its stimulant and tonic effects. Thus, present investigation was carried out to evaluate the antiepileptic and anxiolytic action of G. asiatica Linn. leaves using animal models. Methanol extract at dose levels of 100 and 200 mg/kg was capable of providing protection against both pentylenetetrazole and maximal electroshock induced seizures in mice. Extract also showed significant anxiolytic activity in elevated plus maze, light/dark box and mirror chamber mice models at same dose levels. Results of this study indicated that the methanol extract of leaves of G. asiatica plant possess significant antiepileptic and anxiolytic effect.