Evaluation of Anxiolytic effect of Erythrina mysorensis Gamb. in mice

AIM AND OBJECTIVES: To evaluate anxiolytic effect of stem bark ethanol and chloroform extracts of Erythrina mysorensis in mice. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The anxiolytic activity was examined by using the elevated plus maze (EPM) and open field test (OFT), and motor coordination by rotarod test (RRT). Twenty four Swiss albino male mice were divided into four groups of six mice each. Group 1 received vehicle (normal saline); group 2 received diazepam (1 mg/kg); groups 3 and 4 received ethanolic and chloroform extract of Erythrina mysorensis, 200 and 400 mg/kg p.o., respectively. RESULTS: Mice treated with diazepam (1 mg/kg, p.o.) showed significant (P < 0.001) increase ini the percentage of open arms entries and time spent whereas, in closed arm the number of entries and time spent were significantly (P < 0.05) decreased. Oral administration of chloroform and ethanol extract of E. mysorensis exhibited significant (P < 0.05) increase in the number of open arm entries and time spent with significant (P < 0.05) reduction in number of entries and time spent in the closed arm as compared to group 1. Chloroform and ethanol extracts treated mice also produced significant increase in the number of rearings (P < 0.05), assisted rearings and number of squares crossed (P < 0.01). Rotarod test showed significant (P < 0.01) reduction in motor activity at 45 min with diazepam and E. mysorensis extracts (400 mg/kg) as compared to groups 3 and 1. CONCLUSION: Erythrina mysorensis possess significant anxiolytic activity in the mice. It can be a promising anxiolytic agent.