Anxiolytic activity of leaf extract of Nyctanthes arbor-tristis in experimental rats

Abstract

Hydroalcoholic extract of leaves of Nyctanthes arbor-tristis Linn (NAT) was Pharmacologically validated for its anxiolytic properties in experimental animals using various models such as elevated zero maze, elevated plus maze, open field exploratory behavior, novelty induced suppressed feeding test and social interaction test. Extract was given orally at different dose levels once daily for three consecutive days, while Lorazepam (Lor) (500 mg/kg i.p.) was administered as positive control. NAT (250 and 500mg/kg) showed significant anxiolytic effects on all the models of anxiety. The result reveals that NAT induced a promising increase in open field ambulation and slight increase in rearings and activity in center whereas grooming and fecal dropping remained unchanged. In elevated plus maze, open arm entries, open arm/closed arm are entries ratio and the time spent on open arms was found to be increased. Both the NAT significantly produced the novelty induced increase in feeding latency test. NAT treated animals also showed increased social interaction in normal environment. The NAT observed under above parameters showed positive anxiolytic activity.