Neuro-pharmacological effects of Crinum zeylanicum in mice

The aim of present study was to evaluate some effects of Crinum zeylanicum (C. zeylanicum) on central nervous system. C. zeylanicum methanolic bulb extract (250-1000 mg/kg orally), 2 mg chlorpromazine and 4 mg diazepam /kg body weight intraperitoneally respectively were tested in mice using Irwin test, pentobarbitone-induced sleep test, spontaneous motor activity, apomorphine-induced stereotype behaviour, and rota-rod performance. The C. zeylanicum bulb extract significantly and dose-dependently decreased apomorphine-induced hyperactivity in mice (p<0.001). The Irwin test revealed dose-dependent central depressant effect of the extract, shortened (p<0.05-0.01) the onset of sleep and prolonged the duration of sleep. The extract produced significant (p<0.05-0.001) and dose- dependent reduction in spontaneous motor activity and apomorphine-induced stereotype behaviours in mice. The extract had no effect on performance of mice on rotarod. The results suggest that the extract may possess sedative principles with potential neuroleptic properties.