Abstract

ANXIOLYTIC POTENTIAL OF GMELINA ARBOREA EXTRACT USING ELEVATED PLUS MAZE AND LIGHT -DARK MODELS IN EXPERIMENTAL ANIMALS

Shivani S. Jadhav*, Karan B. More

ABSTRACT

Anxiety disorders are among the most prevalent neurological conditions worldwide and significantly affect the quality of life of individuals. Although several synthetic anxiolytic drugs are available for clinical use, their long-term administration is often associated with adverse effects such as sedation, tolerance, dependence, and cognitive impairment. Consequently, there is a growing interest in identifying safer and effective alternatives from medicinal plants. The present study was undertaken to evaluate the anxiolytic potential of the ethanolic extract of Gmelina arborea leaves using experimental animal models. The collected plant material was authenticated and subjected to morphological, organoleptic, and physicochemical evaluation to ensure its quality and purity. The dried plant material was extracted using ethanol through Soxhlet extraction, and the obtained extract was subjected to preliminary phytochemical screening. The phytochemical analysis revealed the presence of important bioactive constituents such as flavonoids, phenolic compounds, alkaloids, tannins, glycosides, terpenoids, and saponins. Quantitative analysis confirmed the presence of significant levels of phenolic and flavonoid compounds, which are known to possess antioxidant and neuroprotective properties. An acute toxicity study performed according to OECD Guideline 423 indicated that the extract was safe up to a dose of 2000 mg/kg body weight. Based on the safety profile, two dose levels (100 mg/kg and 200 mg/kg) were selected for pharmacological evaluation. The anxiolytic activity of the extract was assessed using the Elevated Plus Maze and Light–Dark Box behavioral models. The results demonstrated a significant increase in the time spent in open arms and illuminated compartments along with an increase in exploratory behavior compared to the control group. The observed effects were dose-dependent and comparable with the standard drug diazepam. The findings of the present study suggest that Gmelina arborea possesses significant anxiolytic activity and may serve as a potential natural therapeutic agent for the management of anxiety disorders.

Keywords: Gmelina arborea, Anxiety, Anxiolytic activity, Elevated Plus Maze, Light–Dark Box test, Medicinal plants, Phytochemical screening, Experimental animals.