Phytochemical Analysis and Anticholinergic Properties of Methanol Leaf Extract of Arachis hypogea on Isolated Rabbit Jejunum

The acute toxicity and parasympatholytic properties of methanol extract of Arachis hypogea leaves were studied in vitro and in vivo. Qualitative phytochemical screening revealed the presence of alkaloids, glycosides, fats and oils, phenols and lignins. Acute toxicity test showed that the extract was not toxic up to 5000 mg/kg body weight. Tonicity studies using rabbit jejunum showed a significant (p<0.05) relaxation effect on that smooth muscle. At 14.28 µg/ml, 29 µg/ml and 57.14 µg/ml, the extract inhibited in vitro acetylcholine-induced contraction of the rabbit jejunum by 84.21%, 86.84% and 89.47% respectively, which compared closely with the effect of atropine (90.21% at 0.28 µg/ml). In conclusion, the results of this study strongly indicated that the extract of Arachis hypogea leaves is safe at the tested dose and possess smooth muscle relaxant properties which may be of value in the management of diseases associated with excess activity of the parasympathetic arm of the autonomic nervous system.