Dose-dependent effect of black mustard seeds (Brassica nigra) extract on the prefrontal cortex of adult Wistar rats

Abstract

Objectives: Mustard seeds, apart from being a culinary essential, have had medicinal applications dating back to the time of Hippocrates. It has in fact been once mentioned as the greatest herb ever. We explored the dose dependent effects of the crude aqueous extract of Brassica nigra (Black mustard seeds) on the prefrontal cortex of adult Wistar rats. Methods: 20 adult female rats weighing an average of 180±20 g were used. They were split into 4 groups (n=5); Group A (received extract at 200 mg/kg body weight), Group B (received extract at 100 mg/kg body weight), Group C (received extract at 50 mg/kg body weight), and Group D (received distilled water ad libitum). All of the animals were subjected to the Y-maze spontaneous alternation test for neurobehavioural analyses following 28-day administration of the extracts. Animals were sacrificed 24 hours after taking the last day of administration. Results: Our results showed that neurobehavioural analyses are significantly hampered in animals receiving 200 mg/kg extract in comparison to the control group. In treatment groups, increased dose of extract elevated the level of MDA, but reduced the level of SOD. LDH levels were also significantly increased in the 200 mg/kg treated group when comparing with the control. General microarchitecture in the prefrontal cortex of 200 mg/kg Brassica nigra treated group showed signs of karyolysis and pyknosis. Conclusion: Brassica nigra (black mustard) is not innocuous and therefore it should be consumed in moderation.