ANXIOLYTIC - LIKE PROPERTIES OF IN MICE.

BACKGROUND

The aim of the present study was to evaluate the anxiolytic properties of the decoction of stem bark of in mice. The decoction of is used in traditional medicine in Cameroon to treat diseases like anxiety disorders, fever, infantile convulsions and malaria.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Stress induced hyperthermia, elevated plus maze, open field and hole-board tests were used. Four different doses of the decoction were administered to mice and their effects were compared to the effects of diazepam and vehicle. Phytochemical characterization of the decoction revealed the presence of alkaloids, flavonoids, tannins and saponins.

RESULTS

Administration of resulted in a significant decrease of stress induced hyperthermia in mice at the doses of 29.5, 59 and 118 mg/kg. In the elevated plus maze test, increased the number of entries and the percentages of entries and time into the open arms, and reduced the number of entries and the percentages of entries and time into the closed arms. In the hole-board test, increased the number of both head-dipping and crossing and decreased the latency to the first head-dips and rearing. The decoction of and diazepam increased locomotion in the open field test.

CONCLUSION

The number of rearing and the mass of fecal boli produced were decreased in mice treated with decoction and diazepam. In conclusion, the results indicated that decoction of has anxiolytic-like properties in mice and could potentially be used for anxiety treatment.