ANTI-DEPRESSANT ACTION OF HYDROALCOHOLIC EXTRACT OF ALTERNANTHERA SISSILIS LEAF IN MICE

Ajay Panika*, Sandeep Jain

The present study investigates the antidepressant-like activity of the hydroalcoholic extract of Alternanthera sissilis leaves (HEAS) in mice. Phytochemical screening revealed the presence of alkaloids, flavonoids, glycosides, tannins, saponins, and phenolic acids. The extract showed significant antioxidant potential, with a total phenolic content of 109.18 mg GAE/g and strong reducing activity in FRAP assay. Antidepressant activity was evaluated using the forced swim test (FST) in albino mice. HEAS at doses of 200 and 400 mg/kg significantly reduced immobility and increased swimming frequency in a dose-dependent manner, with the higher dose showing effects comparable to fluoxetine. Pretreatment with PCPA reversed the antidepressant effect, suggesting involvement of the monoaminergic system. These findings indicate that Alternanthera sissilis leaves possess promising antidepressant and antioxidant properties, supporting their potential as a natural therapeutic agent.