SYNERGISTIC ANTIDEPRESSANT AND ANXIOLYTIC EFFICACY OF THE ETHANOL MIXTURE OF Garlic, Ginger and Turmeric ON Mus musculus SPECIE

ABSTRACT

This study investigates the antidepressant effects of ethanol extract from selected plant samples (namely Ginger, Turmeric, and Garlic) using standard behavioural models in male and female Swiss albino mice. Depression, a pervasive mental health disorder characterized by persistent feelings of sadness and despair, necessitates innovative and effective therapeutic strategies. The study employed a well-structured experimental design involving acute toxicity assessments, phytochemical screening, and behavioural analyses through the Tail Suspension Test (TST), Forced Swim Test (FST), and Hole Board Test. Preliminary phytochemical tests confirmed the presence of bioactive compounds, including flavonoids, alkaloids, and saponins. The acute toxicity results indicated that the extracts were non-toxic at evaluated doses. Behavioural assays revealed that the ethanol extracts significantly increased mobility times in both TST and FST compared to control groups, indicating potential antidepressant activity. The Hole Board Test further supported these findings, demonstrating an increased exploratory behaviour in mice administered with plant extracts, suggesting enhanced motivation and reduced despair. These results indicate that the selected plant extracts possess promising antidepressant properties, warranting further investigation into their mechanisms of action and therapeutic potential as natural antidepressants. The findings contribute to the growing body of literature advocating for the inclusion of herbal remedies in health mental management