Neuroprotective activity of Matricaria recutita Linn against global model of ischemia in rats

Ethnopharmacological relevance: Traditionally, the whole plant is used for various diseases, including neuronal disorders. 

Aim of the study: To evaluate the neuroprotective effect of Matricaria recutita L. against global cerebral ischemia/reperfusion (I/R) injury-induced oxidative stress in rats. 

Materials and methods: Neuroprotective activity was carried out by global cerebral ischemia on Sprague–Dawley rats by bilateral carotid artery (BCA) occlusion for 30 min followed by 60 min reperfusion. The antioxidant enzymatic and non-enzymatic levels were estimated along with cerebral infarction area and histopathological studies. 

Results: The Matricaria recutita L. methanolic extract showed dose-dependent neuroprotective activity by significant decrease in lipid peroxidation (LPO) and increase in the superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), glutathione (GSH) and total thiol levels in extract treated groups as compared to ischemia/reperfusion group. Cerebral infarction area was significantly reduced in extract treated groups as compared to ischemia/reperfusion group. 

Conclusion: Themethanolic extract ofMatricaria recutita L. showed potent neuroprotective activity against global cerebral ischemia/reperfusion injury-induced oxidative stress in rats.