Evaluation of anxiolytic activity of Trachyspermum ammi (ajwain oil) in Swiss albino mice

Abstract

Background: Anxiety disorders are most common mental illness, characterized by changes in mood, behavior, somatic function, and cognition. At present, benzodiazepines are most commonly used drugs for treating anxiety and are associated with many side effects. Medicinal plants are inexhaustible source for searching new drug or new activity, with comparatively lower side effects and drug interactions. Aim and Objectives: The aim of the study was to evaluate the anxiolytic activity of Ajwain oil alone and combination of Diazepam and Ajwain oil (in subthreshold doses), in Swiss albino mice. Materials and Methods: A total of 24 Swiss albino mice of either sex weighing 20–30 g were included in the study and were divided into four groups of six animals each. Among which, Group 1 (control) received – tween 80 (10 mg/kg), Group 2 (standard) – Diazepam (1 mg/kg), Group 3 (test-1) – Ajwain oil (50 mg/kg), and Group 4 (test-2) – Diazepam (0.5 mg/kg) + Ajwain oil (25 mg/kg). After 60 min of oral administration of drugs, anxiolytic activity was assisted using elevated plus maze (EPM) and Digital Actophotometer. Results: Statistical analysis was performed using ANOVA, followed by post hoc Tukey’s test. Ajwain oil showed significant increase in number of entries and time spent in open arm in EPM and in Digital Actophotometer there was decrease in locomotor activity when compared to control. In Group 4, where we used subthreshold dose of Ajwain oil and diazepam, number of entries in EPM and decrease in locomotor activity in Actophotometer showed significant results when compared to standard. Conclusion: Hence, with the above results, we suggest Ajwain oil possesses significant anxiolytic activity.