Neuropharmacological effect of the aqueous extract of Sphaeranthus senegalensis in mice

Effects of the aqueous extract of Sphaeranthus senegalensis Vaill. (Family: Compositae) were studied on spontaneous motor activity, exploratory behavi our, rota-rod performance and pentobarbital sleeping time in rn-ice. Prelim inary phytochemical evaluation and acute toxicity (LD50) values were also s tudied. The extract (50 and 100 mg/kg p.o.) produced reduction in spontaneo us motor activity, exploratory behaviour and motor coordination and prolong ed pentobarbital sleeping time. Glycosides, saponins and tannins were shown to be present in the extract. The i.p. LD50 in mice was 2735.61 and 5000 m g/kg orally. The results suggest that the aqueous extract of S. senegalensi s contains some active principles, which may be sedative in nature. (C) 200 1 Published by Elsevier Science Ireland Ltd.