Anxiolytic-Like Effect of Methanol Leaf Extract of <i>Laggera aurita</i> Linn. F. (Asteraceae) in Mice

Abstract

Background: Laggera aurita belongs to the Asteraceae family; it is an annual herb found growing as weeds in Sub-Saharan Africa, including Nigeria. In Nigeria, Laggera aurita is used as a remedy for paediatric malaria and in the management of epilepsy. Previous studies on extracts of this plant suggested its anticonvulsant activity via GABA-mediated neurotransmission. Therefore, this study aimed at evaluating anxiolytic-like effect of the plant extract. Methods: Anxiolytic potential of the methanol leaf extract of Laggera aurita was evaluated using staircase, elevated plus maze, hole board, open field, beam walking assay, and diazepam-induced sleep tests. Results: The extract significantly (P < 0.05) decreased the number of rearing in the staircase test at 600 and 300 mg/kg. In the elevated plus maze test, there was a significant (P < 0.05 at 600 and 300 mg/kg) increase in the total number of open arm entries and total time spent in the open arms (600 mg/kg). In the hole board test, the extract significantly (P ≤ 0.05 at 600mg/kg) decreased the number of head dips. Using the open field test, the axiolytic activity of the extract was further reflected by the significant (P < 0.05) decrease in the number of rearing (150, 300, and 600 mg/kg). The effect of the extract on beam walking assay showed a significant (P < 0.05) increase (600 mg/kg) in number of foot slips and time spent on beam. The extract (600 mg/kg) significantly (P < 0.05) increased the duration of sleep induced by diazepam. Conclusions: The results of this study revealed that the leaf extract of Laggera aurita possesses anxiolytic-like properties.