Anxiolytic Activities of the Methanol Fraction of the Root Bark of Psorospermum Febrifugum (spach)

Student: Chinwoke Sylvia Igboanugo (Project, 2025)
Department of Science Laboratory Technology
University of Nigeria, Nsukka, Enugu State

Abstract

This research evaluated the anxiolytic-like activity of the methanol fraction of the root bark of Psorospermum febrifugum using validated behavioural models of anxiety in rodents. Sixty albino Wistar mice of both sexes were divided into control and treated groups. Behavioural assays included the Open-Field Test, Elevated Plus-Maze, and Light/Dark Box Test. Mice treated with the methanol fraction exhibited dose-dependent increases in exploratory behaviour and time spent in open arms and illuminated compartments, indicative of reduced anxiety. These findings demonstrate that Psorospermum febrifugum possesses significant anxiolytic-like effects and could offer potential therapeutic benefit for anxiety disorders.

Keywords
Psorospermum febrifugum anxiolytic methanol fraction root bark extract anxiety disorders rodent behavioural models natural medicine GABA receptor open-field test elevated plus-maze
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