Anxiolytic Effect of the Hydro-alcoholic Extract of Anethum Graveolens Seed in Adult Female Wistar Rats: Modulation of GABA Receptors

Along with industrial development and the increasing social complexity of societies, anxiety is one of the most prevalent psychological disorders. Medicinal plants are considered as an enrichment source of ingredients with biological activity. 

The aim of this study was to evaluate the anxiolytic effect of Anethum Graveolens seed (AGS) and the possible involvement of Gamma-Aminobutyric Acid (GABA)-ergic system in the AGS effect.

In the present experimental study, 64 female Wistar rats were divided into eight groups and received various concentrations of hydroalcoholic extract of AGS. To measure the level of anxiety, an elevated plus maze was used in a way that the animal’s head turned to an open arm. Prior to the injections of AGS extract, the GABA receptor antagonist was used. The results were analyzed by one-way analysis of variance using IBM SPSS v. 16.

Dose-response experiments showed that the AGS extract significantly decreased the anxiety indices compared to the control group (P<0.05). To analyze locomotor activity, our data showed that AGS extract at 0.1, 1, and 10 mg/kg could significantly increase locomotor activity compared to the control group (P<0.001). Pentylenetetrazol (PTZ (+extract significantly decreased the anxiolytic effect of AGS extract (P<0.01). 

Considering the anti-anxiety effects of AGS extract and a reduction in this effect caused by PTZ, part of the anti-anxiety effect of extract might be assumed via its interaction with GABA-ergic receptors. Further experimental trials; however, are required for the establishment of the anti-anxiety impact of AGS.