Radioprotection of Swiss albino mouse by Centella asiatica extract.

Centella asiatica, has a considerable reputation in the Indian system of medicine. It is a rasayan (general tonic), brain tonic, improves memory and strengthens the CNS. In view of its multifarious uses, the plant extract was tested for its radioprotective properties. A sublethal dose of Co 60 gamma radiation, i.e. 8 Gy was selected for the purpose. Animals were divided into two groups. The whole bodies were irradiated with Co 60 gamma radiation externally, with and without drug extract. The drug extract was given orally at different doses and for different time intervals. The dose that was most effective against radiation was 100 mg/kg body weight. This dose increased the survival time of the mice significantly. Body weight loss of the animals in the drug treated group was significantly less in comparison with the animals that were given radiation only. The causes and mechanism of protection and other aspects need further investigations. Copyright 2002 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.