Antidepressant and anxiolytic effects of Tephrosia pumila extract
Journal name: World Journal of Pharmaceutical Research
Original article title: Antidepressant and anxiolytic effects of alcoholic extract from tephrosia pumila (l.) pers
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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Ch. Hari Prasad Murthy, Sunil Junapudi, P. Siddartha Kumar and Gaju Rajkumar
World Journal of Pharmaceutical Research:
(An ISO 9001:2015 Certified International Journal)
Full text available for: Antidepressant and anxiolytic effects of alcoholic extract from tephrosia pumila (l.) pers
Source type: An International Peer Reviewed Journal for Pharmaceutical and Medical and Scientific Research
Doi: 10.20959/wjpr201710-9517
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Summary of article contents:
Introduction
Tephrosia pumila (L.) Pers, belonging to the Leguminosae (Fabaceae) family, has a long history of use in traditional Indian medicine for treating various central nervous system (CNS) disorders. However, scientific studies regarding its effects on the CNS are limited. This research explores the potential antidepressant and anxiolytic effects of ethanolic extracts from T. pumila through behavior tests in rats, comparing the results with the standard drug Diazepam.
Antidepressant Activity of Tephrosia pumila
The study employed animal models to assess the antidepressant activity of T. pumila extracts using the Forced Swim Test (FST) and Tail Suspension Test (TST). The results showed that extracts administered at doses of 200 and 400 mg/kg significantly reduced the immobility time of rats, suggesting an antidepressant effect comparable to that of Diazepam. The findings indicate that T. pumila may influence mood-related behaviors and provide a potential alternative for treating depressive disorders.
Anxiolytic Effects Observed
In addition to assessing antidepressant properties, the research evaluated the anxiolytic effects of T. pumila using the Elevated Plus Maze (EPM) test. Rats treated with T. pumila extracts exhibited a significant increase in the time spent in open arms and the number of entries into these areas, which are indicative of reduced anxiety. This response aligns with the actions of standard anxiolytic drugs, further supporting the plant's therapeutic potential for anxiety management.
Investigation of Locomotor Activity
To ensure that the observed effects were not due to changes in general locomotor activity, the study also included the Actophotometer Test. The results showed that neither the T. pumila extracts nor Diazepam produced significant changes in locomotion during the open field test, indicating that the antidepressant and anxiolytic effects were not related to increased motor activity. This finding reinforces the hypothesis that T. pumila specifically targets depressive and anxious behaviors rather than simply affecting general activity levels.
Conclusion
The research concludes that ethanolic extracts of Tephrosia pumila possess notable antidepressant and anxiolytic activities, supported by empirical evidence derived from controlled experiments in laboratory settings. The findings warrant further investigation into the specific chemical constituents responsible for these effects, which could lead to potential therapeutic agents for treating depression and anxiety. The study provides a scientific foundation for the traditional use of T. pumila in managing mood disorders, highlighting its relevance in contemporary pharmacology.
FAQ section (important questions/answers):
What is the traditional use of Tephrosia pumila?
Tephrosia pumila has been traditionally used in Indian medicine for treating various central nervous system disorders, including anxiety, stress, insomnia, and fever.
What methods were used to assess the effects of TPP?
The study utilized behavioral tests such as the forced swim test, tail suspension test, elevated plus maze test, and actophotometer test to evaluate TPP's antidepressant and anxiolytic effects in rats.
What doses of TPP were tested in the study?
The study tested TPP at doses of 200 mg/kg and 400 mg/kg, administered intraperitoneally to assess its effects on behavior in rats.
What were the results of the forced swim test?
The results indicated that TPP significantly reduced the immobility time of rats in the forced swim test, suggesting its potential antidepressant effects comparable to Diazepam.
Did TPP affect locomotor activity in rats?
Neither TPP nor Diazepam at the tested doses significantly affected locomotor activity in the open field test, indicating that the observed antidepressant effects were not due to increased activity.
What conclusion was drawn regarding TPP's therapeutic potential?
The study concluded that Tephrosia pumila possesses significant antidepressant and anxiolytic effects, indicating potential therapeutic relevance for treating depressive disorders.
Glossary definitions and references:
Scientific and Ayurvedic Glossary list for “Antidepressant and anxiolytic effects of Tephrosia pumila extract”. 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) Activity:
Activity refers to the behaviors exhibited by the subjects in the study, particularly in the context of measuring the effects of the ethanolic extract of Tephrosia pumila on depressive and anxious behaviors in rats. It is crucial to assess activity to determine the efficacy of potential treatments in behavioral models.
2) Animal:
In the context of this study, 'animal' refers specifically to albino Wistar rats used as subjects for testing the effects of Tephrosia pumila extract. Animal models are essential in pharmacological research as they provide insights into biological responses and help validate findings before human application.
3) Drug:
Drug refers to the pharmaceutical agents examined in the study, particularly the ethanolic extract of Tephrosia pumila and the standard drug Diazepam. Understanding how these drugs affect behavior helps in evaluating their potential therapeutic roles in treating anxiety and depression.
4) Anxiety:
Anxiety is a mental state characterized by feelings of worry and fear. The study investigates antidepressant and anxiolytic effects, highlighting the relevance of anxiety disorders and the need for effective treatments. The models used in the study help assess the anxiolytic properties of the extract.
5) Depression:
Depression is a prevalent mental disorder marked by persistent low mood and loss of interest. The study focuses on antidepressant activity of Tephrosia pumila to address the importance of finding effective treatments for depression, which remains a significant health issue globally.
6) Table:
In this research, tables are utilized to present data systematically, providing a clear summary of the results obtained from various experiments. Tables help in comparing the efficacy of the extracts and standard treatments concerning their effects on behavior of rats.
7) India:
India is the geographical context for this research, where Tephrosia pumila is traditionally used for various ailments. Understanding local medicinal plants and their potential benefits highlights India's rich heritage in herbal medicine and complements global research on alternative therapies.
8) Study (Studying):
The study represents a systematic investigation into the antidepressant and anxiolytic effects of Tephrosia pumila. It emphasizes the need for scientific validation of traditional herbal remedies, fostering a deeper understanding of their potential as therapeutic agents in mental health care.
9) Phytochemical:
Phytochemicals like flavonoids and alkaloids in Tephrosia pumila are the bioactive compounds being studied for their medicinal properties. The analysis of phytochemicals is essential for discovering new treatments, understanding ways these compounds affect the central nervous system, and evaluating their therapeutic potential.
10) Water:
Water is utilized in the study primarily as a vehicle for drug administration (distilled water for control groups). It is important in experimental settings to ensure that the test conditions are well controlled, so the effects observed can be attributed to the treatments administered.
11) Science (Scientific):
Science refers to the discipline under which this study is conducted. Rigor and systematic approaches are crucial in exploring traditional medicine, entailing the need for scientific validation of therapeutic claims associated with herbal remedies like Tephrosia pumila.
12) Flavonoid:
Flavonoids are a type of phytochemical identified in the extract of Tephrosia pumila. Known for their antioxidant and potential therapeutic effects, studying flavonoids contributes to understanding the biological basis behind the antidepressant and anxiolytic claims associated with this plant.
13) Marri:
Marri refers to the Marri Laxman Reddy Institute of Pharmacy, where the study was conducted. The affiliation enhances credibility and indicates a formal research environment that supports scientific inquiry into pharmacology and herbal medicine.
14) Field:
Field pertains to the open field behavior test utilized in the study to assess locomotor activity. Understanding how treatments affect movement is vital to distinguish antidepressant effects from those caused by increased motor activity.
15) Fear:
Fear, a core component of anxiety disorders, is a focus in the study through behavioral tests that analyze anxiety-like responses in animals. Addressing fear is essential in evaluating potential anxiolytic properties of Tephrosia pumila and its effectiveness in managing anxiety.
16) Pharmacological:
Pharmacological refers to the effects of substances on biological systems, particularly regarding the evaluation of Tephrosia pumila's active constituents. Understanding pharmacological mechanisms is crucial in developing effective therapeutic strategies for mental health disorders.
17) Medicine:
Medicine encompasses the study and application of treatments for health issues. This research highlights the importance of traditional herbal remedies, scrutinizing their efficacy in addressing prevalent mental health conditions like anxiety and depression, contributing to integrative health approaches.
18) Disease:
Disease in this context relates to mental health conditions, specifically depression and anxiety disorders. The prevalence of these conditions underscores the need for effective treatments, making research on alternative therapies such as herbal extracts highly relevant.
19) Species:
Species refers to Tephrosia pumila, the plant studied for its potential antidepressant and anxiolytic effects. Identifying and researching specific species within traditional medicine is vital for discovering new therapeutic agents and understanding their pharmacological properties.
20) Hari (Harin):
Hari refers to Ch. Hari Prasad Murthy, the corresponding author of the study. His involvement indicates active research contributions and underlines the collaborative efforts at the institute to advance our understanding of herbal medicine and mental health treatments.
21) Diet:
Diet refers to the standard pellet diet provided to the animal subjects in the study. Proper diet is important in experimental studies to ensure that any observed effects can be reliably attributed to the treatments rather than variations in nutrition.
22) Cage:
Cage designates the housing conditions for the rats in the study. Well-maintained and hygienic cages are essential for ethical animal research, ensuring that animals are comfortable and stress-free to obtain valid experimental results.
23) Mental disorder:
Mental disorders encompass conditions such as anxiety and depression that impact emotional and psychological well-being. Addressing these disorders through research on potential treatments is critical for improving the quality of life for affected individuals.
24) Inflammation:
Inflammation is relevant in the context of herbal medicine as some phytochemicals have anti-inflammatory properties. While not the primary focus of the study, understanding inflammation may provide insight into the mechanisms by which Tephrosia pumila exerts its effects.
25) Discussion:
Discussion reflects the analysis of the study's findings, interpreting results, and contextualizing the significance of the research within existing knowledge. It enables exploration of implications for future investigations and clinical applications of the results.
26) Substance:
Substance refers to the active components in Tephrosia pumila being studied. Identifying specific substances that contribute to antidepressant and anxiolytic effects is crucial for understanding their therapeutic potential and could lead to the development of new medications.
27) Warangal:
Warangal is a location in Telangana, India, associated with one of the institutions involved in the study. Understanding the geographical and contextual significance of herb usage in local cultures informs the research's relevance and application in traditional medicine.
28) Hygiene (Hygienic):
Hygienic pertains to the cleanliness and maintenance of the environments where the animals are kept. Ensuring hygienic conditions is crucial in animal research to prevent contamination and biases that might affect study outcomes.
29) Hysteria:
Hysteria, historically viewed as a mental disorder, indicates historical perspectives on psychological conditions. Including references to hysteria highlights evolving understandings of mental health and the ongoing need to address various anxiety-related disorders today.
30) Krishna (Krsna):
Krishna refers to Dr. K.S. Murali Krishna, a contributing author to the study. Acknowledging the efforts and roles of various researchers underscores the collaborative nature of scientific inquiry and enhances the credibility of the research conducted.
31) Heating:
Heating pertains to the methods employed during the extraction process of Tephrosia pumila. Controlled heating is essential in ensuring the effective extraction of bioactive compounds, influencing the potency and efficacy of the herbal extract in the study.
32) Balaji:
Balaji refers to Balaji Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, another key institution involved in the study. Highlighting this institution reflects the diverse collaborations in research and the emphasis on pharmaceutical education in exploring medicinal plants.
33) Family:
Family refers to the botanical classification of Tephrosia pumila (Leguminosae), which is essential in understanding related species, their medicinal use, and their historical significance. Classification aids in identifying plant characteristics and their potential therapeutic roles.
34) Indian:
Indian represents the cultural and geographical setting of the study, emphasizing the significance of local traditional medicine practices. Researching herbal remedies within their cultural context is crucial for validating their use and exploring their therapeutic potential.
35) Filling (Filled):
Filled pertains to the water-filled glass cylinder used in forced swim tests during the study. The design of the experimental setup is critical in replicating conditions that elicit behavioral responses relevant for assessing antidepressant activity.
36) Botany:
Botany relates to the scientific study of plants, including the identification and classification of Tephrosia pumila. Understanding plant biology and classification aids in discovering potential medicinal properties and informs traditional and modern herbal applications.
37) Ranga (Ramga):
Ranga refers to Ranga Reddy District, where Tephrosia pumila was collected. The geographical context enriches the research's relevance to local flora and demonstrates the use of indigenous plants in addressing health issues.
38) Kumar:
Kumar refers to P. Siddartha Kumar, a co-author of the research. Recognizing contributions of diverse researchers underscores collaboration and the collective effort in producing meaningful findings in the field of pharmacology and herbal medicine.
39) Glass:
Glass pertains to the containers used for conducting various laboratory tests and experiments. In the context of the study, glass equipment assures the integrity of experimental conditions, enabling reliable observations of the effects of the extracts.
40) Fever:
Fever, while not a primary focus of the study, is one of the conditions for which Tephrosia pumila has historically been utilized in traditional medicine. Contextually, this highlights the plant's broader use beyond anxiety and depression treatments.
41) House:
House refers to the animal housing facility within the research institute, indicating controlled environments for keeping experimental subjects. Proper housing is vital for ethical research, animal welfare, and to obtain credible, reproducible results.
42) Cina:
China in this context likely refers to the origin of the chemical reagent used in the study. Highlighting sourcing of materials underscores the global nature of modern scientific research and the importance of quality chemicals in experimental protocols.
43) Mud:
Mood refers to the emotional state that is crucial for studying depressive and anxiety disorders. Understanding mood dynamics is key to evaluating the efficacy of treatments, as fluctuations can significantly impact the outcomes of behavioral assessments.
44) Life:
Life encompasses the overall living conditions and well-being of individuals affected by mental health disorders. Addressing issues like depression and anxiety through effective herbal interventions can enhance the quality of life for countless individuals suffering from these conditions.