Evaluation of Antidepressant Potential of Hydrastis canadensis in Mice

Abstract

BACKGROUND: Depression is one of the most common chronic psychological disorders around the world presenting with many interpersonal and social problems. Common antidepressants have various adverse effects and are not safe for long-term therapy. Alternative safer remedies are under investigation with a focus on herbal therapies. Hydrastis canadensis is a perennial herb, rich in many phytoconstituents ranging from amino acids to alkaloids, flavonoids, and steroids. It is also widely used in Chinese folklore tradition for mood elevating effects; however, this has not been scientifically proven.
 AIM: This study is thus aimed at evaluating antidepressant potential of this plant.
 MATERIALS AND METHODS: Ethanolic extract of dried root of plant was prepared by maceration technique and was subjected to phytochemical screening. Mice were divided into four groups (n = 5). Tween 80, 2 ml (negative control), fluoxetine 10 mg/kg (positive control), and extracts at 150 mg/kg and 250 mg/kg were administered by intraperitoneal route to mice in their respective groups. The locomotor activity was assessed for 5 min using actimeter at 0, 30, and 60 min for each animal. Increase in locomotion was an index of antidepressant effect. The mean value of each group was calculated and results were compared by one-way ANOVA. p < 0.05 was considered statistically significant.
 RESULTS: Phytochemical screening yielded positive results for alkaloids and saponins. Locomotion was increased in groups treated with fluoxetine and extract at 150 mg and 250 mg/kg dose when compared to negative control (1% – Tween 80). This was an index of antidepressant effect. However, the results were statistically significant (p < 0.05) for fluoxetine and extract treated groups at 250 mg/kg. Fluoxetine demonstrated the highest antidepressant effect.
 CONCLUSION: This study has demonstrated the antidepressant potential of Hydrastis canadensis ethanolic extract. Further studies are required to validate these findings on other experimental models. The specific active constituent and effects at cellular level need to be evaluated.