Dose-dependent anxiolytic and antioxidant efficacy of Piper betle

Present study was undertaken to investigate anxiolytic and antioxidant properties of a methanolic extract of Piper betle Linn. leaves in female Wistar rats subjected to Chronic Unpredictable Mild Stress (CUMS). Two doses (100 and 200 mg/kg) of the extract were administered orally and compared with imipramine – a standard anxiolytic agent. Behavioral assessments using the Elevated Plus Maze (EPM) indicated that the dose of 100 mg/kg body weight notably increased the transfer latency and decreased the time spent in the closed arms, signifying anxiolytic activity similar to that of imipramine. Conversely, the 200 mg/kg dose resulted in adverse effects including weight loss and behavioral irregularities. Biochemical analyses revealed that the 100 mg/kg extract enhanced endogenous antioxidant enzymes, specifically superoxide dismutase (SOD) and reduced glutathione (GSH), while reducing lipid peroxidation levels (measured as MDA) caused by chronic stress. These findings suggest that Piper betle possesses neuro-protective properties by alleviating oxidative stress and influencing anxiety-related behavioral parameters. Present communication explains the therapeutic potential of Piper betle as a natural anxiolytic agent.