Keywords: Albertisia papuana; Withdrawal Symptoms; Mekai

Abstract

Opiate addiction is a very troublesome issue, with the number of cases increasing every year. Rehabilitation methods that are currently available are often unsatisfactory as the drugs used for the detoxification process can inflict adverse effects such as cravings and respiratory depression. Albertisia papuana leaves, commonly called mekai by the Dayak tribe, are often used by these people to enhance the taste of food. This plant has antidotal potential and affects the nervous system. However, research on this plant is still scarce, thus its effectiveness in overcoming drug dependence is not yet proven. We attempted to explore this plant by analysing its chemical content using LC-MS/MS and assessing its potential as a withdrawal symptom suppressor in a model of narcotic dependence by observing addictive behaviour in mice. The chemical profile of A. papuana included C7H16NO3, C20H26NO3, C20H24NO4, C19H37N4O3, C21H22NO4, and C47H50N9O12. The observation of withdrawal behaviour was done using psychomotor tests, curiosity and coordination tests, as well as light and ear nerve sensitivity tests. The results showed values that were close to the control group, with consecutive values ​of 12.38 ± 5.25 seconds, 3.75 ± 4.35 seconds, 4.00 ± 3.74 seconds, 60.25 ± 51.08 seconds and 139.50 ± 61.70 seconds for mice that were given A. papuana leaf extracts. In all tests, A. papuana significantly reduced withdrawal effects. This data may be used for further research on the use of A. papuana leaves in rehabilitation treatments for morphine addiction.