Silver preparations used in Indian systems of medicine: Neuropsychobehavioural effects

Abstract

Objective: To study the neuropsychobehavioural effects of traditional silver preparations: Raupya Bhasma, Kushta Nuqra and Chandi Warq. Methods: The preparations were subjected to a battery of 30 tests for general neuropsychopharmacological effects, cognitive functions, antidepressant, anxiolytic, neuroleptic and serenic activities, effects on growth, body weight, endurance and fatigue. Results: The test drugs (50 mg/kg, p.o.) caused significant reduction of haloperidol-induced catalepsy in rats. Incorporation in the diet of rat pups (1% w/w for 6 weeks) lead to significantly higher growth rate when compared to control animals. No appreciable effects were discernible on other parameters. Conclusion: Silver preparations used in Ayurveda and Unani-Tibb showed anticataleptic and growth promoting effects without gross or subtle toxicities, weight loss, sedation, motor deficit, aggression or ill effects on cognitive functions.