Screening and Evaluation of Anti-Parkinson Activity of Mucuna pruriens Seed Extract in Rodents

Abstract

Parkinson's disease is a brain disorder that occurs due to the loss of dopamine-producing cells, causing symptoms like tremors, stiffness, and slow movement. Current treatment with synthetic levodopa often causes side effects with long-term use, so there is a need to explore natural alternatives. Mucuna pruriens is a traditional medicinal plant that naturally contains L-DOPA, the same compound the brain converts into dopamine, and has long been used in Ayurveda for tremor-related conditions. This study aims to screen and evaluate the anti-Parkinson activity of Mucuna pruriens seed extract in rodents. Parkinson-like symptoms will be induced in rats using haloperidol, and the animals will be divided into groups receiving no treatment, the disease-inducing agent alone, a standard anti-Parkinson drug, and different doses of the seed extract. The effects will be measured using simple behavioral tests such as muscle stiffness (catalepsy), movement activity, and coordination (rotarod test), along with biochemical tests to check antioxidant levels and dopamine content in the brain. Results will be compared statistically between groups. The extract is expected to reduce stiffness and improve movement and coordination in a dose-dependent manner, along with better antioxidant activity and dopamine levels, like the standard drug. This study may help support the use of Mucuna pruriens as a natural and safe option for managing Parkinson's disease symptoms, with scope for further research.