Cymbopogon citratus 80% Methanolic Leaf Extract Inhibit Acetyl-Cholinesterase on Mice Model

Abstract

Oxygen is a unique element indispensable for life. Free radicals are forms as a consequence of ATP (adenosine triphosphate) production by the mitochondria in oxidative phosphorylation due to use of oxygen by cells to generate energy. Most of the by-products form as a result of this biochemical changes are reactive oxygen species (ROS) as well as reactive nitrogen species (RNS). Delicate balance between the two antagonistic effects is among the vital aspect of life ROS and RNS exert beneficial effects on cellular responses and immune function at low or moderate concentration. Therefore, the aim of this study is to evaluate the cholinesterase inhibitory effect of Cymbopogon citratus 80% (leaf) extract. The leaf was extracted with 80% methanol. A toxicity study was carried out on mice. Cholinesterase inhibitory activities were also evaluated on the same mice using Ellman’s method. Result revealed high cholinesterase inhibitory activities of the crude extract with high significant differences at P<0.001) between the group that were treated with crude extract only, group treated with crude extract and exposed to arsenic and group that were exposed to arsenic only as well as group that are maintained in complete media. It can be concluded that low toxicity and high cholinesterase inhibitory effect of the crude extract is responsible for it therapeutic effects of this crude extract. Toxicity screening of this crude extract on a mammal such as rat to reaffirm their toxicity profile are recommended. Antioxidant screening as well as isolation of bioactive compounds present in this plant part is strongly recommended.