Evaluation of Anxiolytic and Behavioral Activity of Ethyl Acetate Leaf Extract of <i>Zizzyphus spina Christi</i> leaves in Swiss Albino Mice

Abstract

Ziziphus spina-christi, a plant from the Rhamnaceae family, has been traditionally used in African and Mediterranean medicine to manage anxiety and behavioral disorders. This study investigated the anxiolytic and antidepressant effects of ethyl acetate leaf extract of Ziziphus spina-christi (ZSCE) using in vivo mouse models. Anxiety-related behaviors were evaluated using the elevated plus-maze (EPM) test, light/dark box (LDB) test, and open field test (OFT). Mice were assigned to four groups (n=8 each): Group 1 received normal saline, Group 2 received 100 mg/kg ZSCE, Group 3 received 200 mg/kg ZSCE, and Group 4 was treated with 2 mg/kg diazepam. Sedative potential was assessed using amylobarbitone-induced sleep onset and duration at ZSCE doses of 100, 200, and 400 mg/kg. Normal saline and diazepam (2 mg/kg) served as negative and positive controls, respectively. ZSCE (100 and 200 mg/kg) significantly reduced time spent in the closed arms and increased time in the open arms of the EPM, suggesting anxiolytic activity (p < 0.05). ZSCE also prolonged sleep duration and shortened sleep onset in a dose-dependent manner (p < 0.05). Additionally, ZSCE increased time spent in the light box and transitions between LDB compartments, further supporting its anxiolytic potential. In the OFT, ZSCE at 100 mg/kg enhanced locomotor activity but was less effective than diazepam. One-way ANOVA confirmed significant central nervous system depressant, anxiolytic, and sedative effects, highlighting the necessity for further research into ZSCE’s bioactive constituents.