Neuroprotective Effect of Matricaria chamomilla Extract on Motor Dysfunction Induced by Transient Global Cerebral Ischemia and Reperfusion in Rat

[Background]Stroke can cause paralysis, muscle weakness, and loss of balance that may affect walking and routine activities.[Objectives]The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of ethyl alcohol extract of Matricaria chamomilla on cerebral ischemia-induced motor dysfunctions in rats.[Methods]In this experimental study, forty two male Wistar rats were divided into 6 groups consisting of control group, sham group, ischemia/reperfusion group and three treatment groups [treated with 50, 100, and 200 mg/kg doses of M. chamomilla extract and undergoing ischemia/reperfusion(I/R)]. Motor coordination and balance were evaluated using Rotarod test. Total antioxidant capacity, malondialdehyde (MDA), and nitric oxide (NO) levels of serum and brain were also determined.[Results]The extract of M. chamomilla significantly improved I/R-induced motor dysfunction. Induction of I/R led to increase serum MDA, while the extract of M, chamomlla significantly reduced it. Administration all doses of M. chamomilla extract to the ischemic rats did not reduce the hippocampus MDA levels (P > 0.05). The extract of M. chamomilla at dose of 200 mg/kg slightly decreased cortex MDA (P > 0.01). It had no significant effects on the total antioxidant capacity of the brain (hippocampus and cortex) and serum. Injection of Matricaria chamomilla extract also did not change serum NO level.[Conclusions]Our findings suggested that the Matricaria chamomilla extract could improve motor dysfunction.