Anxiolytic effects of Cordia myxa L. leaf extracts in mice.
Journal name: World Journal of Pharmaceutical Research
Original article title: Anxiolytic activity of leaves extracts of cordia myxa l. in mice as experimental models of anxiety.
The WJPR includes peer-reviewed publications such as scientific research papers, reports, review articles, company news, thesis reports and case studies in areas of Biology, Pharmaceutical industries and Chemical technology while incorporating ancient fields of knowledge such combining Ayurveda with scientific data.
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Kanika Arora, Geeta Deswal, Ashwani Dhingra, Priyanka Kriplani, Gaganpreet Kaur
World Journal of Pharmaceutical Research:
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Full text available for: Anxiolytic activity of leaves extracts of cordia myxa l. in mice as experimental models of anxiety.
Source type: An International Peer Reviewed Journal for Pharmaceutical and Medical and Scientific Research
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Summary of article contents:
Introduction
Cordia myxa L., a member of the Boraginaceae family, has a long history of traditional use in treating various neurological disorders, though it had not been systematically studied for its biological properties. This research aimed to evaluate the anxiolytic effects of different extracts of Cordia myxa leaves in mice. Using the elevated plus maze test (EPMT) and the light and dark test (L and DT), the study compared the effects of the plant's extracts with that of diazepam, a standard anxiolytic drug.
Significant Effects of Methanol Extract
Among the various extracts tested (petroleum ether, chloroform, methanol, and aqueous), only the methanol extract showed significant anti-anxiety activity at a dosage of 200 mg/kg. This extract led to an increased time spent in the open arms of the elevated plus maze as well as in the light compartment of the light/dark exploration test, suggesting its potential efficacy as an anxiolytic agent. Interestingly, doses higher or lower than 200 mg/kg did not produce notable effects, indicating a possible optimal range for the anxiolytic effect of this extract.
Phytochemical Composition and Potential Mechanisms
Phytochemical screening of the leaves revealed the presence of various compounds, including alkaloids, phenolic compounds, tannins, flavonoids, and saponins. Notably, flavonoids are recognized for their anxiolytic properties, potentially influencing the central nervous system and interacting with benzodiazepine receptors. Therefore, it is plausible that the flavonoid content in the methanol extract plays a crucial role in mediating the observed anxiolytic effects in the study.
Experimental Methodology
The study was rigorously designed, utilizing well-established animal models to assess anxiety-related behaviors. Swiss albino mice were divided into control and test groups, with treatments administered in a controlled laboratory environment. Parameters observed in both the EPMT and L and DT included the number of entries and time spent in various compartments, providing quantifiable data on the anxiolytic effects of the extracts.
Conclusion
The findings of this research highlight the significant anxiolytic activity of the methanol extract of Cordia myxa leaves at a dose of 200 mg/kg in mice, as indicated by improved performance in anxiety tests. While the study encourages further investigation into the specific phyto-constituents responsible for the anxiolytic effects observed, it underscores the potential of natural remedies in addressing anxiety and related disorders, especially given their lower side-effect profile compared to synthetic drugs like benzodiazepines.
FAQ section (important questions/answers):
What is the primary focus of the study on Cordia myxa?
The study investigates the anxiolytic activity of various extracts of Cordia myxa leaves in mice, specifically using the elevated plus maze test and light and dark test.
Which extract of Cordia myxa showed significant anti-anxiety activity?
The methanol extract of Cordia myxa exhibited significant anti-anxiety activity at a dose of 200 mg/kg when compared to the control and standard drug, diazepam.
What methods were used to evaluate anti-anxiety activity?
The anti-anxiety activity was evaluated using the elevated plus maze test and light and dark test, where the behavior of mice was observed after dosing.
How were the extracts of Cordia myxa prepared for the study?
The leaf extracts were prepared using successive Soxhlet extraction with solvents in increasing order of polarity: petroleum ether, chloroform, methanol, and water.
What were the main findings regarding the efficacy of extracts?
Results indicated that only the methanol extract showed significant anxiolytic effects at specific doses, while other extracts did not demonstrate any significant anti-anxiety activity.
What phytochemicals were identified in the methanol extract of Cordia myxa?
Phytochemical screening revealed the presence of alkaloids, phenolic compounds, tannins, flavonoids, and saponins in the methanol extract, potentially contributing to its anxiolytic effects.
Glossary definitions and references:
Scientific and Ayurvedic Glossary list for “Anxiolytic effects of Cordia myxa L. leaf extracts in mice.”. This list explains important keywords that occur in this article and links it to the glossary for a better understanding of that concept in the context of Ayurveda and other topics.
1) Anxiety:
Anxiety refers to a mental health condition characterized by feelings of worry, fear, or unease. In the study, anxiety is a focal point, examined through experimental models like the elevated plus maze and light and dark tests to evaluate the anxiolytic effects of Cordia myxa leaf extracts.
2) Animal:
The research involved Swiss albino mice as test subjects to evaluate the efficacy of Cordia myxa extracts. Animals are commonly used in scientific experiments to test hypotheses, as they can provide insights into physiological responses and effects that may also occur in humans, thereby aiding in pharmacological studies.
3) Activity:
Activity in this context pertains to the biological or pharmacological effects observed from the administration of Cordia myxa leaf extracts in test models. The study focused on the anti-anxiety activity, quantifying the behavioral responses of mice to ascertain the extracts' effectiveness in reducing anxiety levels.
4) Drug:
The term drug in this research primarily refers to the pharmacological agents used to elicit specific effects in biological systems. Diazepam was used as the standard drug for comparison, reflecting the study’s aim to evaluate natural alternatives to synthetic anxiolytic medications for safer therapeutic options.
5) Water:
Water is one of the solvents used in the extraction process of Cordia myxa leaves. The study evaluated various extracts (petroleum ether, chloroform, methanol, and water) to understand their phytochemical profiles and subsequent anxiolytic activities, underscoring the importance of extraction mediums in phytopharmacological research.
6) Phytochemical:
Phytochemicals are naturally occurring compounds in plants that can have biological activities. In the study, various phytochemicals were screened from Cordia myxa extracts to identify constituents potentially responsible for anxiolytic effects, contributing to the understanding of how plant-based compounds interact with biological systems.
7) Flavonoid:
Flavonoids are a specific class of phytochemicals known for their therapeutic properties, including anti-anxiety effects. The presence of flavonoids in methanolic extracts of Cordia myxa suggests their potential role in mediating anxiolytic activity, highlighting the need for further investigation into their pharmacological mechanisms.
8) India:
India is recognized for its extensive biodiversity and rich tradition of using medicinal plants in holistic treatments. The study of Cordia myxa, a plant native to India, reflects the cultural significance and potential of indigenous flora in developing alternative therapies for various health conditions, particularly anxiety.
9) Table:
The research includes tables that summarize data, such as phytochemical screening results and quantifiable anti-anxiety responses observed in animal models. Tables serve as essential tools in scientific literature, providing clear, organized data that enhances understanding and facilitates interpretation of experimental outcomes.
10) Ambala:
Ambala is referenced as the location of M.M. College of Pharmacy, which played a pivotal role in the study by providing animal testing resources. The geographic setting is important for contextualizing the research within a regional framework, where local flora like Cordia myxa is prevalent.
11) Nature:
Nature encompasses the ecosystem from which medicinal plants like Cordia myxa are harvested. The study's premise emphasizes the importance of exploring natural products for therapeutic benefits, reflecting a growing trend towards utilizing herbal remedies in contrast to synthetic pharmaceuticals in modern medicine.
12) Medicine:
Medicine refers to the science and practice of diagnosing and treating illness. The research explores the medicinal properties of Cordia myxa, aiming to validate traditional claims and contribute to the field of natural medicine by identifying safe and effective alternatives for anxiety treatment.
13) Yamuna:
Yamuna signifies the region in India where Cordia myxa leaves were collected, indicating the local flora's role in the study. The cultural and environmental context of the study enhances understanding of the plant's importance in traditional medicine practices prevalent in the region.
14) Study (Studying):
The study represents a systematic investigation into the anti-anxiety properties of Cordia myxa leaf extracts. Research studies like this are fundamental in bridging traditional knowledge and modern scientific validation, paving the way for integrating herbal remedies into contemporary therapeutic practices.
15) Powder:
Powder refers to the form of the plant material after being dried and ground, utilized for extraction. The preparation of the powdered leaves of Cordia myxa is crucial for successful extraction of its phytochemical constituents, impacting the efficiency and effectiveness of subsequent biological assessments.
16) House:
The term house is associated with the animal house facility where the Swiss albino mice were housed. A controlled animal house is essential for providing a suitable environment for experimentation, ensuring consistent conditions that improve the reliability of experimental results in pharmacological studies.
17) Guru:
Guru refers to Guru Gobind Singh College of Pharmacy, which is associated with the research. It illustrates the academic and educational settings that contribute to scientific inquiries, where institutions play a critical role in fostering research initiatives and providing resources for student and faculty research.
18) Tree:
Tree refers to the type of plant Cordia myxa, which is categorized as a medium-sized tree. Its classification highlights the ecological aspects of the plant, as well as its traditional usages in herbal medicine, thereby linking botany with the exploration of therapeutic applications.
19) Nardostachys jatamansi (Nardostachys jatamamsi):
Nardostachys jatamansi is mentioned as an example of other plants with documented anxiolytic properties. By referencing such plants, the study situates itself within the broader context of ethnopharmacology, emphasizing the relevance of exploring various natural products for their potential therapeutic benefits in mental health.
20) New Delhi:
New Delhi represents the location of the National Institute of Science Communication and Information Resources (NISCAIR), where the plant material was authenticated. The significance of botanical identification is emphasized, as accurate taxonomic classification is critical for ensuring the credibility of medicinal research.
21) Observation:
Observation is a fundamental aspect of the experimental process, encompassing the behavioral responses of mice following the administration of plant extracts. Systematic observation supports data collection, interpretation, and conclusions drawn regarding the anxiolytic effects of tested substances, which is vital in scientific methodologies.
22) Surrounding:
Surrounding refers to the environmental context in which the animal studies were conducted. Controlling external stimuli during experiments is vital for minimizing variables that could influence the behavior of the subjects, ensuring that results are reflective of the treatment effects being assessed.
23) Discussion:
Discussion represents a critical section of research papers where findings are interpreted, contextualized, and compared with existing literature. It allows for a comprehensive understanding of the implications of the study's results, fostering dialogue about future research directions and the significance of the findings.
24) Science (Scientific):
Science represents the systematic study of the natural world through observation and experimentation. The research on Cordia myxa reflects the integration of botanical knowledge and pharmacological inquiry, blending traditional practices with scientific inquiry to explore the medicinal potential of herbal remedies.
25) Training:
Training relates to the preparatory processes undertaken by staff or researchers who conduct animal studies. Proper training ensures that individuals are equipped with the knowledge and skills necessary to handle animals ethically and effectively, thereby enhancing the validity and reliability of experimental results.
26) Kanika:
Kanika refers to one of the authors involved in the research study, highlighting the collaborative effort typically present in scientific endeavors. The contribution of various researchers is important in advancing knowledge and developing a comprehensive understanding of the subject matter at hand.
27) Forest:
Forest indicates the natural habitat from which Cordia myxa leaves were sourced. The connection to forest ecosystems emphasizes the ecological significance of plant biodiversity and the importance of conserving these environments for sustainable use of natural medicinal resources.
28) Family:
Family refers to the biological classification in taxonomy. Cordia myxa belongs to the Boraginaceae family, which helps categorize and relate this species to others with similar characteristics, assisting researchers in understanding its potential therapeutic effects based on related plants.
29) Medium:
Medium in this context refers to the type of solvent used in the extraction process. The choice of extraction medium influences the yield and efficacy of phytochemicals extracted, directly impacting the evaluation of biological activity in pharmacological research.
30) Gold (Golden):
Golden signifies the valuable treasure of knowledge and resources that nature provides, particularly in terms of medicinal plants. The study reflects the idea of 'golden opportunities' to explore natural compounds in traditional medicine, which contribute to the development of modern therapeutics.
31) Gupta:
Gupta refers to the institution or a specific laboratory (Gupta Scientific Store) associated with the equipment used in the extraction process. Mentioning specific sources or equipment providers contributes to transparency in research methodologies, ensuring reproducibility in scientific studies.
32) Delhi:
Delhi is mentioned in the context of the research, particularly as the authentication location for Cordia myxa. The geographical relevance of the research site adds credibility and context, emphasizing the importance of local flora in understanding traditional medicinal practices.
33) Paddy:
Paddy relates to the type of bedding used in the animal housing, which is vital for the comfort and well-being of the test subjects. Proper housing conditions contribute to better animal welfare and more reliable research outcomes, aligning with ethical standards in animal studies.
34) Cage:
Cage refers to the enclosures used to house the experimental mice during the study. The design and management of animal cages are crucial for maintaining animal welfare and ensuring that the conditions are suitable for observing behavioral changes related to the anxiolytic treatment.
35) Ripe:
Ripe describes the state of fruit produced by the Cordia myxa plant, indicating its maturity and potential nutritional value. While this study focuses on leaves, understanding the lifecycle and product yield of the plant underlines the comprehensive investigation required in plant-based pharmacological research.
36) Post:
Post indicates the subsequent analysis or steps taken after the experimental phase, important in discussing results and drawing conclusions. In scientific research, post-experimental considerations involve interpreting data, discussing implications, and suggesting further studies to validate and expand upon initial findings.