Anxiolytic effect of Murraya koenigii leaf extract in rats

Abstract

Use of anxiolytic drugs is increasing. Several classes of such agents are available, benzodiazepines forming the most frequently prescribed group [1], However, most, if not all of these drugs are likely to induce physical or psychological dependency with regular use, while withdrawal symptoms may develop if they are stopped suddenly [2]. Thus there is a need for the development of novel anxiolytic drugs without such undesirable side effects. Plants can be a potential source of anxiolytic drugs. However, the potential of plants as anxiolytic agents has not been fully investigated. We have now evaluated the anxiolytic aaivity of a water extract of mature leaves of Murraya koenigii (Family Rutaceae; known as karapincha in Sinhala and Karuvembu in Tamil), using rats and the shock-induced suppression of drinking test [3]. We selected this plant because some Ayurvedic physicians in Sri Lanka claim that a water extract of M. koenigii leaves possesses anxiety relieving action. It is, therefore, used in the treatment of hiccough and other conditions. However, this has not been scientifically validated.