European Journal of Biomedical and Pharmaceutical Sciences

EXTRACTION, PHYTOCHEMICAL ANALYSIS, AND IMMUNOMODULATORY ACTIVITY OF METHANOLIC LEAVES EXTRACT OF SCHREBERA SWIETENIOIDES ROXB

Mahjabi Baig*, Surendra Jain, Vinod Dhote and Kanika Dhote

ABSTRACT

Epilepsy, a common chronic neurological disorder, continues to challenge clinicians worldwide due to limitations and adverse effects of existing antiepileptic drugs (AEDs). Herbal alternatives are increasingly explored for their multi-target efficacy and reduced toxicity. This study evaluated the methanolic bark extract of Litsea nitida — traditionally used in neurological disorders. The bark was extracted using ultrasonic-assisted extraction (UAE), yielding 11.2% w/w extract. Phytochemical screening showed presence of flavonoids, alkaloids, diterpenes, and proteins. Total flavonoid content (TFC) and total alkaloid content (TAC) were quantified as 0.923 mg/100 mg and 0.585 mg/100 mg, respectively. Anticonvulsant activity was assessed in pentylenetetrazole (PTZ)-induced and maximal electroshock (MES)-induced seizure models in mice. The extract produced dose-dependent effects, increasing latency to seizures and reducing tonic hind limb extension. Findings suggest Litsea nitida possesses significant anticonvulsant potential, supporting traditional claims and encouraging further phytochemical and mechanistic exploration.

Keywords: Litsea nitida, antiepileptic, phytochemical screening, flavonoids, PTZ model, MES model.