Anesthetic activity of Tubli (Derris elliptica ) root extracts at varying concentrations and model of administration on male albino mice.

Abstract

Background: there is need to explore the medicinal potential local plant species in the country. Tubli, an agricultural weed, has long been hypothesized to have anesthetic properties as observed in years of folk hunting and fishing practices in different regions in the country, and similarly among others countries which use root extract of the plant in immobilizing the target prey.

Objective: This study aimed to determine the anesthetic potential of Tubli (DErris elliptica) root extract at specific concentrations and mode of administration.

Methods: The study was conducted at the West Visayas State University College of Medicine Laboratory from April to May 200. Included were 360 three-month old albino mice., with 10 replicates for each type of administration at varying concentrations. D. elliptica root extract concentrations (0%, 10!%, 12% , 14%, 16%, 18%, 20%, and 22%) were administered via intramuscular (IM) injection and subcutaneous (SC) injection. Specific changes in behavior and activity of mice specimens upon treatment were observed and monitored. The optimum anesthetic activity of D. elliptica root extract, at different concentrations and varying modes of administration was determined using the Pain Test for analgesia and the Run Test for extent of paralysis. Changes test specimen behavior and activity were also monitored through Ethogram Test at 30-60 minute observation periods.

Results: Runa and Pain Test results showed optimum anesthetic activity at 18% concentration via IM injections and at 20% concentration via SC injections. Significant differences were achieved between the different extract concentration tested. There was no significant difference between the two modes of administration performed. The anesthetic effect of D. elliptica remained localized. The duration of mice activity was greatly limited by the extent of paralysis on the tested limb. Other body activities remained intact implying localization of anesthetic effect.

Conclusion: Tubli has potential medical importance because of its anesthetic properties at specific concentration and mode of administration.

Keywords: Tubli, Derris Elliptic, Anesthetic, Paralysis, Analgesia