Effects of the Non-Volatile Residue from the Essential Oil of Citrus bergamia on the Central Nervous System

Abstract

In order to help define the spectrum of biological activities of Citrus bergamia Risso (Bergamot, Rutaceae), neuropharmacological studies have been conducted with the non-volatile total residue (NVTR) from the essential oil of this plant in mice. The test material showed a reducing effect in spontaneous activity, a potentiation of sodium pentobarbital-induced sleeping time, a protective effect against pentylenetetrazol-induced convulsions and death, and a suppressive effect on acetic acid-induced writhing. No effect was noted on muscle relaxation by intraperitoneal administration. These results suggest that the nonvolatile residue possesses a central nervous system depressant action.

Keywords::

• Citrus bergamia
• Rutaceae
• CNS depressant action