Preclinical evaluation of Boswellia serrata for anxiolytic activity

Abstract

Anxiety disorders are the most common psychiatric disorders in the general population. Around 15-20% patients in general practice present with anxiety disorders. It is characterized by excessive worrying, apprehension, uneasiness and fear about uncertainties in future. Recent studies have shown that as many as 18% of Americans, 20.7% of Indians and 14% of Europeans are affected by anxiety. 1,2 The DSM-IV (American Psychiatric Association) covers the following major categories of anxiety disorders: panic disorder (with or without agoraphobia), social phobia (social anxiety disorder), specific phobia, generalized anxiety disorder, acute stress disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder and anxiety disorder not otherwise specified. 3 Decreased levels of GABA, an inhibitory neurotransmitter in the central nervous system is responsible for causing anxiety.Most of the anxiolytics achieve their goal by modulating the GABA receptors. [4][5][6] Benzodiazepines are the most commonly used, safe and effective drug in the short term management of anxiety. 7 Long-term use of benzodiazepine has psychological and physical adverse effects. They are also associated with tolerance, physical dependence and withdrawal syndrome on sudden discontinuation. 8,9 Hence, the requirement for newer, well-tolerated and efficacious treatment remains high.Boswellia serrata (BS) is a tree of moderate height, grows mainly in hilly parts of India. The therapeutic value of resinous gum (Guggulu), has been known since a long period. Gum resin possesses anti-inflammatory, antiarthritic, and analgesic activity. 10,11 BS is a proven antioxidant. 12 Phytochemical analysis has shown the presence of many valuable compounds such as lignans, flavonoids, hydrolysable tannins (ellagitannins), polyphenols, triterpenes, sterols and alkaloids. In vitro tests also revealed that Boswellic acid, isolated from ABSTRACT Background: Boswellia serrata (BS) has been described in the ancient Ayurvedic texts Sushruta Samhita and Charaka Samhita. It possesses anti-inflammatory, analgesic, anti-arthritic and antioxidant properties. It is found that BS helps in surging of GABA levels in mice brain. The aim of this study was to evaluate the possible anxiolytic activity of BS in Swiss albino mice by light and dark arena (LDA) and elevated plus maze (EPM) models. Methods: In this study, BS (50 mg/kg, 100 mg/kg and 200 mg/kg; p.o) was evaluated for anxiolytic action and compared with standard drug (diazepam) and control (normal saline) in mice by LDA and EPM models. In LDA, number of entries and time spent in light and dark boxes were noted for individual mouse. Similarly, number of entries and time spent in open and closed arms were recorded for EPM model. Results: One-way Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) followed by Dunnett's post-hoc test was used to analyze the data. BS in a dose of 50 mg/kg has shown significant increase in time spent in light box (p<0.05) and decrease in time spent in dark box (p<0.05) when compared to control group in LDA model. Si...

Effects of Boswellia serrata resin on central nervous system: a mini review

“…It has been understood that 50 and 200mg/kg of B. serrata could ameliorate anxiety behaviors in Swiss albino mice in light and dark arena and elevated plus maze tests. (Adake et al, 2015). In a clinical trial oral administration of B. serrata reduced the intensity and frequency of headaches in patients with chronic cluster headaches (Lampl et al, 2012).…”

From Preclinical to Clinical Evidence: Exploring the Multiple Perspectives and Healing Power of Boswellia Serrata Roxb. Ex Colebr

“…Adake et al, reported the role of B. serrata in various psychiatric disorders, such as depression and anxiety in animal models, by modulating multiple neurotransmitter levels in the brain (117). Accordingly, AKBA showed anxiolytic activity in mouse models (118), and by reducing astrocyte activation and NF-κB activation, AKBA was able to revert an in vivo Aβ-associated depressive-like phenotype (119).…”

Evaluation of Antidepressant Activity of Dolichos Biflorus Methanolic Seed Extract in Animal Models of Depression

“…Acute oral toxicity was done in male Swiss albino mice according to Organization of Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) guidelines, ANNEX-423. [18] Animals were administered methanolic extract of Dolichos Biflorus seeds in a dose of 50,100, 200 and 2000mg/kg per orally to find out safe dose range in animals. Animals were observed for 48 hours from the time of drug administration.…”