Anticonvulsant Potential and Toxicological Profile of <em>Verbesina persicifolia </em>Leaf Extracts: Evaluation in Zebrafish Seizure and <em>Artemia salina </em>Toxicity Models
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Epilepsy is a chronic neurological disorder with significant treatment challenges, necessitating the search for alternative therapies. This study evaluates the anticonvulsant activity and toxicological profile of Verbesina persicifolia leaf extracts. Methanolic and sequential fractions (hexane, dichloromethane, ethyl acetate, and methanol) were tested using a pentylenetetrazole (PTZ)-induced seizure model in zebrafish (Danio rerio), measuring seizure latency, severity, and survival rates. Phytochemical analysis identified flavonoids, alkaloids, and steroids, suggesting neuroactive potential. Ethyl acetate and hexane fractions significantly increased seizure latency and survival rates, with co-administration of hexane extract and diazepam enhancing these effects. Toxicity assessment in Artemia salina indicated low to moderate toxicity in methanolic extracts, whereas sequential fractions exhibited higher toxicity, particularly in hexane and ethyl acetate extracts. Cell viability assays in chicken embryo fibroblasts confirmed a concentration-dependent safety profile. The findings suggest that V. persicifolia extracts exert anticonvulsant effects, likely through GABAergic modulation, and have a favorable safety profile at therapeutic doses. These results support further investigations to isolate active constituents and explore their potential as plant-derived anticonvulsant agents.