PHARMACOLOGICAL ASSESSMENT OF MEDICINAL EXTRACT'S ANTI-ANXIETY IMPACT IN ANIMALS BY LOCOMOTIVE AND BEHAVIOURAL RESEARCH EMPLOYING LIGHT SENSITIVITY

Background: Anxiety disorders are prevalent mental health conditions characterized by excessive fear and behavioural disturbances.Traditional herbal remedies have shown potential in managing anxiety, but their pharmacological validation remains underexplored.This study investigates the anti-anxiety effects of an herbal extract using preclinical behavioural models in mice.Methodology: Mice weighing 20-25g were divided into three groups (n=6 per group): Group 1 (negative control), Group 2 (Vinpocetine 10mg/kg) Herbal extract treated the anti-anxiety effects were evaluated using three models: Actophotometer and social behaviour test.Results: The negative control group showed higher locomotion counts, more line crossings, and less time in the centre square.Vinpocetine-treated mice displayed reduced counts, fewer line crossings, and increased central square activity.The herbal extract-treated group showed similar results to the vinpocetine group, suggesting anxiolytic effects.In the social behaviour test, the herbal extract enhanced social interaction, comparable to vinpocetine. Conclusion:The herbal extract demonstrated significant anxiolytic effects, comparable to diazepam, across all tested models.These findings support its potential as a natural alternative for anxiety management.