Diospyros mespiliformis bark extract: Phytochemical profiling, anxiolytic activity, and safety evaluation in mice
Year: 2026
Type: article
Abstract: Diospyros mespiliformis is a plant utilized in traditional medicine in Cameroon for the treatment of mental disorders. However, data related to its bioactive compounds as well as its safety profile are scarce, and its purported beneficial effects have yet to attain scientific validation. Therefore, this study aimed to assess phytochemicals, anxiolytic effects and acute toxicity of D. mespiliformis. The aqueous bark extract of D. mespiliformis (DmBE) was prepared by decoction and its phytochemical composition was determined through qualitative tests. The acute toxicity of a single dose of DmBE (5000 mg/kg) was assessed according to the OECD 423 protocol. Subsequently, the assessment of the anxiolytic properties of the decoction on both transient and chronic anxiety in mice was conducted utilizing the elevated plus-maze, the open field, the hole-board, and the restrainer. Phytochemical screening revealed the presence of phenolic compounds, flavonoids, tannins, alkaloids, sterols, anthraquinones, saponosides, and triterpenes. DmBE did not induce any signs of toxicity or mortality in mice. A significant decrease (p<0.001) in anxiety levels was noted in mice for all tests. Oxidative stress linked to anxiety was improved with increased tissue antioxidants and reduced lipid peroxidation in DmBE-treated mice (p<0.001). All the beneficial effects were dose-dependent and the most effective dose (120 mg/kg). Findings validate the traditional use of D. mespiliformis bark for mental health treatment with acceptable safety.
Institution: University of Douala
Subfield: Complementary and alternative medicine
Field: Medicine
Domain: Health Sciences
Open Access status: diamond
OpenAlex ID: W7127047499
FWCI:
Cites:
Cited by:
Related to: