Evaluation of anxiolytic and antidepressant effect of different dosage forms of the Guduchi

Abstract

Background: In the field of psychopharmacology many of ayurvedic dosage forms are being researched for their anxiolytic and antidepressant effect. Guduchi is a well-known Medhya Rasayan well explained in Ayurveda classics. Aim: To evaluate the anxiolytic and antidepressant effect of three dosages forms of Guduchi (Guduchi Satva, Ghana and Churna) using open field test, elevated plus maze test in anxiety and behavioral despair test in depression. Materials and Methods: Adult Charles-Foster albino rats of either sex divided into five groups which were given carboxymethyl cellulose, lorazepam 1 mg/kg (standard anxiolytic) imipramine 10 mg/kg (standard antidepressant), Guduchi Satva 112.5 mg/kg, Ghana 45 mg/kg and Churna 180 mg/kg, respectively, for 22 days. Statistical Analysis: A statistical analysis was done by one-way ANOVA test followed by Tucky and Kramer multiple comparison tests using Graph Pad Prism 6. P < 0.05 was considered significant. Result and Conclusion: Guduchi Satva and Ghana significantly reversed the sub-acute stress-induced alterations in behavioral parameters in all the tests. Guduchi Satva and Ghana as compared to Guduchi Churna found to be having anxiolytic and antidepressant activity in experimental animals in behavioral parameters such as rearing, grooming, and immobility period. Thus, these formulations can be used in prevention and treatment of anxiety and depression.