Anxiolytic Activity of Glycyrrhiza glabra Linn

Abstract

Objective: To study anxiolytic activity of hydroalcoholic extract of roots and rhizomes of Glycyrrhiza glabra. Materials and methods: Mice received varying doses (10-300mg/kg i.p.) of hydroalcoholic extract of Glycyrrhiza glabra and anxiolytic activity was assessed using different paradigms like elevated plus maze, foot shock-induced aggression, and amphetamine-induced stereotypy. Diazepam or ondansetron served as standard anxiolytic agents. Results: In all the animal models of anxiety, lower doses of hydroalcoholic extract were more effective in alleviating anxiety. The extract and standard anxiolytic agents increased duration of occupancy of mice in open arm, increased latency to foot shock induced aggression and reduced number of fighting bouts and delayed the onset of amphetamine induced grooming, biting, sniffing and repetitive head movements. Conclusion: The hydroalcoholic extract of roots and rhizomes of Glycyrrhiza glabra possesses anxiolytic activity.