Antidepressant Effects of Hydroalcoholic Extract of Origanum Vulgare L. Using Adult Male Mice Model of Depression Induced by Reserpine

Abstract

Introduction: Origanum Vulgare (Oregano) is a plant rich in antioxidant compounds and has therapeutic effects. The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of Oregano alcoholic extract on complications of depression in reserpine-poisoned mice.
 Methods: In this experimental study, 42 male BALB/c mice were divided into 6 groups of 7, including control (normal saline), negative control (reserpine), fluoxetine (positive control), and three reserpine groups treated respectively with 100, 200 and 400 mg/kg of Oregano via the intraperitoneal route. Depression was evaluated using forced swim test. Brain and serum total antioxidant capacity and malondialdehyde level were also determined. The data were analyzed by SPSS statistical software and One-Way ANOVA test. The significant was shown with (p≤0.05).
 Results: Negative control group significantly increased immobility time and decreased swimming time compared to the control group in the forced swim test (p≤0.001) and the extract at levels of 200 and 400 mg/kg similar to fluoxetine significantly reduced the immobility and increased the swimming time (p≤0.001). Reserpine in the negative control group decreased the antioxidant capacity and increased the level of malondialdehyde in serum and brain compared to the control group (p≥0.001).Compared to the negative control group, the extract at the level of 200 mg/kg, similar to fluoxetine, increased the antioxidant capacity in the brain (p≥0.01) and decreased the level of malondialdehyde in the serum and brain (p≥0.001). In addition, the extract at level of 400 mg/kg similar to fluoxetine significantly increased the total antioxidant capacity and decreased the level of malondialdehyde in serum and brain (p≤0.001) compared to control group.
 Conclusion: Oregano seems to have significant potential in reducing depressive symptoms and reducing oxidative stress due to its active antioxidant compounds.