Abstract:
Background: Albizia zygia (DC.) J.F. Macbr. (Leguminosae) has been used to treat mental disorders in traditional
African medicine. Nonetheless, there is limited scientific evidence to justify its present use. The aim of this study
was to evaluate the antidepressant activity of the hydroethanolic extract of A. zygia roots (AZE) in murine
models.
Methods: AZE was evaluated in the tail suspension test, forced swim test, and the repeated open-space swim
test of depression. In order to elucidate the mechanisms of action, the activity of AZE was re-evaluated after
treating mice with selective inhibitors of monoamine biosynthesis. The potential of AZE to influence spontaneous
locomotion was also examined.
Results: AZE (100–1000 mg/kg, p.o.) reduced the immobility time of mice in the tail suspension and forced
swim tests (at least p < 0.05). In the repeated open-space swim test, AZE reduced the immobility time
(at least p < 0.05) while concomitantly increasing the distance swam by mice (p < 0.01). However, the
antidepressant-like activity of AZE was attenuated by α-methyl-para-tyrosine and reserpine (p < 0.0001) but
not para-chlorophenylalanine.
Conclusions: The results of this study indicate that AZE possesses antidepressant-like properties and support
the traditional use of AZE for the treatment of depression.
