Elenine is the aglycone of elenoside, a cytotoxic arylnaphthalene lignan (NSC
644013-W/1) derived from Justicia hyssopifolia. (Family: Acanthaceae). Elenoside
is a β-D-glucoside, with a similar chemical structure to etoposide, exhibiting
central depressant activity. In the present study, elenine was given to mice and
rats at doses of 10, 20, and 40 mg/kg. Acute toxicity (24 h) and general
behaviour in mice was studied as well as its effects on muscular relaxant
activity, locomotor activity (Varimex test), and the open-field test and were compared
with 10 mg/kg of chlorpromazine. Elenine produced a reduction in the
permanence time in muscular relaxant activity (traction test). Spontaneous
activity was lower in the Varimex test. The ambulation and rearing were lower
compared with the control group, and an increase in boluses was observed in the
open-field test. Thus, it can be concluded that elenine has central sedative
effects at lower doses than those used with elenoside and has a possible
application in conditions of anxiety
