Pharmacological Screening Activity of Selected Plant Extract in Mice Model

The study evaluated the pharmacological activities of ethanolic extracts of Lilium candidum and Chamomilla capitula using validated animal models. Preliminary phytochemical screening confirmed the presence of alkaloids, flavonoids, tannins, phenolic compounds, and triterpenoids, which are known contributors to gastroprotective, neuropharmacological, and antioxidant effects. Acute toxicity studies established safety up to 2000 mg/kg, suggesting a wide therapeutic margin. Anti-ulcer activity: Both extracts significantly reduced gastric acidity and ulcer index in pyloric ligation and aspirin-induced models. The effect was dose-dependent, with Chamomilla capitula (400 mg/kg) showing maximum protection (~77–79%), comparable to ranitidine. Anti-diarrhoeal activity: In castor oil-induced diarrhoea and enteropooling models, both extracts decreased stool frequency and intestinal fluid accumulation. Chamomilla capitula at 400 mg/kg produced the strongest inhibition (~75–82%), nearly equal to loperamide. Antianxiety activity: Elevated plus maze testing showed dose-dependent increases in open-arm entries and time spent in open arms, indicating anxiolytic effects. Antidepressant activity: In forced swim and tail suspension tests, both extracts reduced immobility time significantly, with Chamomilla capitula (400 mg/kg) showing the most pronounced antidepressant-like effect (~73%), comparable to diazepam. Overall, both extracts demonstrated gastroprotective, anti-diarrhoeal, anxiolytic, and antidepressant properties, with Chamomilla capitula showing consistently superior effects at higher doses.