Evaluation of Anxiolytic Effects of Justicia secunda Methanol Leaf Extract and Its Chemical Constituents in Mice

Abstract

Introduction: (MLEJS) on anxiety and depression in mice. Methods: In this study, animals were male Swiss mice weighing 20-25 g. Gas chromatography-mass spectroscopy (GC-MS) phytochemical analysis of MLEJS was performed to verify the different bioactive components. An acute oral toxicity study was performed based on the Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) guideline, No.423. We investigated the antidepressant and anxiolytic effect of MLEJS (12.5, 25, and 50 mg/kg) using lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced depression and flumazenil/benzodiazepine interaction in GABA (gamma-amino-butyric acid) receptors. The open field test, forced swimming test, and tail suspension test were performed to evaluate the depressive-like behavior in mice. Also, hole-board, light/dark box, elevated plus maze, thiopental sodium, and rotarod motor coordination tests were used as a screening paradigm for the anxiolytic effect of MLEJS. Results: The MLEJS had an anxiolytic-like effect by increasing the exploration of the open arms and reducing the exploration of the closed arms in the elevated plus maze, light/dark box, and hole-board test. Moreover, LPS-induced depressive-like behavior in mice was reversed by the MLEJS (P<0.05). The significant attenuation of proinflammatory mediators and suppression of oxidative and nitrosative stress could be responsible for the observed effects (P<0.05). Conclusion: The MLEJS can be an efficient therapeutic option against anxiety and depression concomitantly.