PHARMACOLOGICAL EVALUATION OF ANTI-DEPRESSANT ACTIVITY OF BUTEA MONOSPERMA LEAVES EXTRACT IN MICE

Abstract

Depression is a significant mental health disorder characterized by persistent sadness and loss of interest. This study evaluates the antidepressant activity of ethanolic extract of Butea monosperma leaves using stress-induced depression models in Swiss albino mice. Forced Swim Test (FST) and Tail Suspension Test (TST) were employed. The extract was administered at doses of 100 mg/kg and 200 mg/kg body weight orally. The results demonstrated significant dose-dependent reduction in immobility time, indicating potential antidepressant activity. Phytochemical screening revealed the presence of flavonoids, alkaloids, and phenolic compounds, which may contribute to the observed effects. These findings suggest that Butea monosperma leaf extract has promising antidepressant properties.