Purpose: The purpose of present investigation to assess the anti-depressant
activity of methanolic extract of Areca catechu using Mice model. Methods: The
methanolic extract was prepared using cold extraction process with the help
of continuous hot percolator apparatus. The final extract was evaluated for
preliminary phytochemical analysis, acute toxicological studies (Mice Model).
Anti-depressant assessment was carried out as per the standard methods i.e
forced swimming test, tail suspension test, 5-HT induced head twitches in
mice, clonidine induced aggression, L-dopa induced hyper activity and
aggressive behavior test. Results: Results reveals that extract possess good
antidepressant potential. By observing significant change in the immobility
(reduced immobility) for both forced swimming test as well tail suspension
test it confirms the antidepressant effect for Areca catechu methanolic extract.
Conclusion: Methanolic extract of Areca catechu having potential
antidepressant profile. Further continuing research is needed to determine
constituents, those having antidepressant activity for the safe and effective use
in human welfare.
Keywords: Methanolic extract, areca catechu, mice, immobility, tail suspension
test, forced swimming