Evaluation of anti-anxiety activity of ethanolic extract of Jasminum sambac leaves in experimental animals

Aims and Objectives: The present study aimed to evaluate the anti-anxiety activity of the ethanolic extract of Jasminum sambac leaves in Swiss albino mice using the Elevated Plus Maze model. Methods: Healthy Swiss albino mice (35-40 g, either sex) were randomly divided into four groups (n = 6). Group I (control) received normal saline (10 ml/kg, orally) once daily for 21 days. Group II (standard) received diazepam (2 mg/kg, orally) on the twenty-first day. Groups III and IV received ethanolic extract of Jasminum sambac leaves at doses of 250 mg/kg and 500 mg/kg, respectively, orally once daily for 21 days. On the final day, animals were tested in the Elevated Plus Maze one hour after treatment. The parameters recorded included number of entries and time spent in open and closed arms, total arm entries, percentage of open arm entries, and percentage of open arm time during a 300-second trial. Phytochemical screening of the extract was also carried out. Data were analyzed using one-way analysis of variance followed by Dunnett’s post hoc test. Results: The ethanolic extract of Jasminum sambac leaves at 500 mg/kg significantly increased the number of entries and time spent in open arms (p< 0.01), with corresponding increases in the percentage of open arm entries and percentage of open arm time, without affecting locomotor activity. The 250 mg/kg dose produced no significant effect. Diazepam significantly enhanced all open arm parameters (p< 0.001). Phytochemical screening confirmed the presence of alkaloids, flavonoids, tannins, phenolic compounds, carbohydrates, saponins, and steroids. Conclusion: The ethanolic extract of Jasminum sambac leaves exhibited significant dose-dependent anti-anxiety activity without impairing locomotion, supporting its traditional use. Flavonoids and alkaloids may contribute through modulation of the gamma-aminobutyric acid system.