PHYTOCHEMICAL INVESTIGATION AND PHARMACOLOGICAL EVALUATION OF ACHYRANTHES ASPERA L. STEM EXTRACTS FOR ANTIANXIETY ACTIVITY ON WISTAR RATS
Main Article Content
Keywords
Achyranthes aspera, phytochemical screening, anti-anxiety activity, anxiolytic, elevated plus maze, open field test
Abstract
The present study investigates the phytochemical composition and pharmacological evaluation of Achyranthes aspera L. stem extracts for anti-anxiety activity in wistar rats. Achyranthes aspera, a well-known medicinal plant, has been traditionally used for the treatment of various ailments, including anxiety. The stem extracts of A. aspera were prepared using different solvents and subjected to comprehensive phytochemical screening, revealing the presence of bioactive compounds such as alkaloids, flavonoids, saponins, tannins, and glycosides. These compounds are known for their potential therapeutic properties. The anti-anxiety activity was evaluated using established animal models, including the elevated plus maze, open field test, and light/dark box test. The results demonstrated a significant reduction in anxiety-like behavior in rats treated with the stem extract compared to the control group. Furthermore, the pharmacological effects were comparable to that of standard anxiolytic drugs, indicating the potential of Achyranthes aspera stem extracts in managing anxiety disorders. The study also suggests a possible mechanism of action, involving the modulation of neurotransmitter systems, although further investigations are required to elucidate the exact molecular pathways. This research supports the traditional use of Achyranthes aspera as an anxiolytic agent and provides a scientific basis for its potential therapeutic application in the management of anxiety disorders.
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