Evaluation of the Anxiolytic and Antidepressant Effects of Standardized Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) Root Extract in Wistar Rats
Year: 2024
Type: article
Abstract: study assessed the effects of Ashwagandha root extract (ARE) on stress in rats. The anxiolytic and antidepressant effects of ARE were assessed using the elevated plus maze test, sucrose preference test, and forced swim test. The rats were divided into the following groups: control group (no disease), disease control group (no treatment), standardized ARE group (test; ARE administered in doses of 27, 54, and 108 mg/kg body weight), and fluoxetine group (active control). Biochemical parameters in the serum [monoamine oxidase (MAO)-A, MAO-B, serotonin, cortisol, adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH), corticotropin-releasing hormone (CRH), interleukin (IL)-6, tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α, and brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF)] and brain tissue (serotonin) were estimated at the end of 36 days to understand the potential mechanism behind the anxiolytic and antidepressant effects of ARE. The behavior test results indicated significant improvement in anxiety and depression-like behavior with ARE treatment in a rat model exposed to a validated protocol of chronic variable stress. The results of biochemical analyses revealed a significant increase in serotonin and BDNF levels and a decrease in CRH, ACTH, and cortisol levels. The inflammatory markers IL-6 and TNF-α were also significantly reduced with ARE treatment. ARE demonstrated notable effects on anxiety and depression markers in rats, indicating its potential as a prophylactic and therapeutic agent.
Authors: Jayshree Dawane, Sanghee Seok, Priti Dhande, Deepak Langade, Hwana Han, Sang-Back Kim, Jae-Yeong Ju
Language: English
Subfield: Complementary and alternative medicine
Field: Medicine
Domain: Health Sciences
Open Access status: hybrid
OpenAlex ID: W4405891000