Investigation of anticonvulsant effects of Bellis perennis L. plant in experimental epilepsy model induced Pentylenetetrazole

Epilepsy is a central nervous system disorder characterized by seizures resulting from excessive neuronal discharge. Epilepsy, which is widely seen around the world, negatively affects individuals' lives. Therefore, research on epileptogenesis and epilepsy treatment is of great importance. Plants hold great potential in the development of antiepileptic treatment approaches. Bellis perennis L. is frequently used by the public due to its various effects and properties. Furthermore, the plant's various effects have been demonstrated in scientific studies. This study investigated the possible anticonvulsant effects of Bellis perennis L. in a pentylenetetrazol (PTZ)-induced epilepsy model. For this purpose, Bellis perennis L. was collected in April and its aqueous extract was obtained. Thirty-five male Wistar-albino rats were randomized into 5 groups (control, diazepam, Bellis perennis L. extract 50, 100, and 200 mg/kg). For 14 days, the plant extract was administered to the experimental groups via gavage at doses of 50, 100, and 200 mg/kg. During the same period, the control group rats were administered an equal volume of physiological saline orally. The diazepam group rats were administered 5 mg/kg diazepam 30 min before PTZ administration. To induce epileptic seizures, all experimental groups were administered PTZ at a dose of 60 mg/kg (i.p.) on the last day of the experiment. All experimental groups were observed for various parameters related to seizure activity. A statistically significant effect was observed in the 100 and 200 mg/kg plant extract groups compared to the control group in terms of generalized tonic-clonic seizures (p<0.05). There was no significant difference in Racine scale score averages between the plant extract groups and the control group (p>0.05). A decrease in the mortality rate occurring within the first 30 minutes of seizure was observed in the 100 mg/kg plant extract group. No difference was found between the groups in terms of the time of myoclonic jerk occurrence (p>0.05). No anticonvulsant effect was observed at a dose of 50 mg/kg of plant extract. It is thought that studies in different epilepsy models and with a wider range of doses and experimental groups would be beneficial for elucidating the anticonvulsant effects of Bellis perennis L.