Phytochemical evaluation and screening of anti-depressant and anxiolytic activities of Bacopa monniera in rats

Around 21% of the global population suffers from MDD, making it one of the most common mental disorders. People who take antidepressant medications often are more likely to experience undesirable effects such as hypoplasia, cardiovascular toxicity, decreased libido, obesity, and sleep disorders. Studies investigating the potential medicinal benefits of natural remedies for psychiatric diseases have gained increasing attention throughout the past decade. The ethanolic extract of Bacopa monnieri (EEBM) was evaluated for potential anti-depressant effects and anxiolytic activityin animal models. The different phytochemical constituents like Alkaloids, steroids, triterpenoids, tannins and phenolic compounds, saponins were identified. Acute toxicity trials were performed in accordance with OECD standards 425, and the EEBM was shown to be safe at doses up to 2000mg/kg body weight. In-vivo anti-depressant activity was conducted utilizing experimental procedures involving animal models, namely testing, TST, and FST.From the study and results, it was observed that the effect of Bacopa was significant and comparable to reference standards.