Antidepressant activity of nyctanthes arbor-tristis leaf extract

Abstract

Hydroalcoholic extract of leaves of Nyctanthes arbor-tristis Linn (NAT) was Pharmacologically validated for its antidepressant properties in experimental animals using various models such as Forced swim test, Learned helplessness test, Tail suspension test and Reserpine induced hypothermia. Extract was given orally at different dose levels once daily for three consecutive days, while Imipramine (15 mg/kg, i.p.) was administered as positive control. NAT (250 and 500mg/kg) showed significant antidepressant effects on all the models. Immobility time in FST and TST was significantly reduced by NAT. A decrease in number of escape failures in LHT was also observed in NAT treated rats. NAT also completely antagonized reserpine induced hypothermia. Results suggested that NAT showed significant antidepressant activity.