The effect of hydroalcoholic extract of Mentha Pulegium on anxiety in male rats

Background and Aim: Anxiety is one of the most common mental disorders that decrease the quality of life and leads to chronic disorders. Studies have shown that the Mentha Pulegium extract can affect the central nervous system. Due to the side effects of most anxiolytic chemical drugs; this study was conducted to evaluate the effect of Mentha Pulegium hydroalcoholic extract leaves on anxiety in male rats. Materials and Methods: In this experimental study, 24 male rats were used. Animals were divided into 4 groups (N=6), including control group (untreated) and three experimental groups receiving doses of 400, 800, 1600 mg/kg (rat weight) of Mentha Pulegium hydroalcoholic extract. The extract was injected intraperitoneally half an hour before the test. Anxiety was assessed by using elevated plus maze. The duration and frequency of the presence of the rats in open and closed arms of maze were recorded. Data were analyzed by one-way ANOVA and Tukey post hoc tests. Results: The mean percentage of number of entrance open arms and their duration was significantly increased in rat receiving the extract compare than control (P<0.05), and the duration of presence in closed arm was reduced by the extract (P<0.05, P <0.01). Conclusion: According to these findings, Mentha Pulegium hydroalcoholic extract leaves reduces anxiety in rats by dose-dependent manner.