Neuroprotective Effects of Stachys Lavandulifolia Hydroalcoholic Extract on Size of Cerebral Ischemia, Blood-Brain Barrier Permeability and Edema Volume in Rat Stroke Model

Recent studies point to the protective effects of Stachys lavandulifolia against inflammation and oxidative stress. The purpose of this study was to investigate the neuroprotective effects of Stachys lavandulifolia on brain injury, blood-brain barrier permeability and edema volume in rat stroke model. In this experimental study, 17 male Wistar rats groups (n=6) were used; including control groups, sham and groups receiving doses of 50, 75 and 100 mg/kg/day of extract; for 30 days and orally by gavage. Two hours after the last gavage, the stroke groups were subjected to the Middle Cerebral Artery Occlusion (MCAO) model. 24 hours later, the volume of stroke, the blood-brain barrier permeability (BBB) and the volume of edema were investigated in the experimental groups. Results were analyzed by one-way ANOVA, Bonffron post test through Graph Pad Prism software and designed through Excel. This study with research ethics code IR.UI.REC.1397.162 has been approved by research ethics committee at Isfahan University. Pre-treatment with Hydroalcoholic Extract with doses of 50, 75 and 100 mg/kg/day reduced stroke size. The dose of 75mg/kg/day reduced the permeability of BBB and the edema volume compared with the stroke group. The most effective dose of Stachys lavandulifolia is 75 mg/kg, which has a strong potential in neuroprotection and stroke prevention. This study could be useful in further investigating of neuroprotective effect of Stachys lavandulifolia.