EVALUATION OF ANTI OXIDANT AND CNS STIMULANT ACTIVITY OF HYDRO ALCOHOLIC EXTRACT OF MOMORDICA CHARANTIA L ON SD RATS

In the present study Momordica charantia L extract was prepared in two different solvents depending on polarity and was tested for the presence of different phytoconstituents. Phytochemical analysis of Momordica charantia L revealed the presence of alkaloids, saponins, flavonoids, triterpenes, tannins and steroids. Momordica charantia L has rich presence of phenols and flavanoids. Antioxidant, antiviral, antifungal, diuretic, laxative, anti-diarrhoeal activities are reported in Momordica charantia L. The phenols are the centrally active class of phytoconstituents which are responsible for many pharmacological activities. Acute toxicity study was carried out on the total phenols extract of Momordica charantia L (HECQ). The estimated LD50 of HECQ was 290.00 mg/kg indicating its moderately toxic properties. This study not only substantiate central depressant and muscle relaxant activity of Momordica charantia L, it also attempts to establish phytopharmacological co-relation with presence of phenols are known for their central effect. Ethnobotanically similar Vitaceae plant contains triterpenes and phytosterol like ?amyrin, 24-metaylene cycloartenol and ?-sitosterol has reported sedative, anti-anxiety and anti-depressant activity. Further studies are suggested to explore mechanism of action of Momordica charantia L phenols in concern to interaction with central receptors