Neuropharmacological Evaluation of Aqueous Extracts of Tecoma stans Linn in Mice Models

Mood disorders such as major depression and bipolar disorder continue to be leading contributors to global morbidity, often resulting in reduced productivity and increased healthcare burden. According to the World Health Organization (2001), only a small proportion of the estimated 450 million individuals affected by mental or behavioral disorders receive adequate treatment. These conditions accounted for 12.3% of the global disease burden, with projections suggesting a rise to 15% by 2020. This study aimed to evaluate the neuropharmacological effects of Tecoma stans flowers in mice, with a focus on validating their traditional medicinal use. The flowers were shade-dried, powdered, and sequentially extracted using solvents of increasing polarity. The aqueous extract was administered orally at doses of 200 mg/kg and 400 mg/kg. Behavioral assessments focused on antipsychotic and CNS depressant activity, and the data were analyzed using one-way ANOVA followed by Dunnett’s post hoc test. The results showed that the aqueous extract of Tecoma stans significantly reduced amphetamine-induced stereotypic behaviors and increased pentobarbitone-induced sleeping time in a dose-dependent manner. These findings suggest that the plant possesses notable antipsychotic and CNS depressant properties, supporting its traditional use in managing neuropsychiatric conditions.