Abstract

Debika Sarmah* and Dr. Rupa Sengupta

ABSTRACT

Epilepsy is one of the most prevalent and frequently occurring neurological disorders. It is a pervasive brain condition, that puts a significant burden on individuals, families, and healthcare systems. Approximately 50 million people worldwide currently suffer from epilepsy. According to estimates, India is home to more than 12 million epileptics. Long-term use of antiepileptic medication develops hepatotoxicity because the liver is the major organ for drug processing and disposal. The hepatotoxic effects of antiepileptic medications including phenytoin and valproic acid are widely established. Antiepileptics result in numerous morphological and metabolic abnormalities in the liver. The development of reactive metabolites and reduction of beta-oxidation may contribute to their hepatotoxic effects. Due to the medications' poor efficacy and significant side effects, traditional medicine is being used more frequently. Nigella sativa seed popularly known as black cumin is a plant that is indigenous to northeastern India called Kalo jeera, a member of the Ranunculaceae family. It has been used for centuries to treat various illnesses. It is found that thymoquinone, a key component of Nigella sativa, is effective against epilepsy by enhancing the inhibitory activity of the GABAergic system. The plant is also found to be beneficial against agents causing hepatotoxicity like valproic acid by inhibiting lipid peroxidation and also by repressing the activities of liver toxicity markers. The review work includes information on native plants of Assam, Nigella sativa. Their involvement in protecting against several prevalent neurological disorders like epilepsy, as well as details on their possible mechanisms and boosting hepatoprotective benefits.