Behavioral and Biochemical Effects ofMukia madrespatanaFollowing Single Immobilization Stress on Rats

Background and Objectives:Elevated oxidative stress has been shown to play an important role in the diagnosis and prognosis of stress and memory-related complications.Mukia madrespatana(M. madrespatana) has been reported to have various biological and antioxidant properties. We intended to evaluate the effect ofM. madrespatanapeel on single immobilization stress-induced behavioral deficits and memory changes in rats.Materials and Methods:M. madrespatanapeel (2000 mg/kg/day, orally) was administered to control and immobilize stressed animals for 4 weeks. Anxiolytic, antidepressant, and memory-enhancing effects ofM. madrespatanawere observed in both unstressed and stressed animals.Results:Lipid peroxidation was decreased while antioxidant enzymes were increased in both unstressed and stressed animals. Acetylcholine level was increased while acetylcholinesterase activity was decreased in bothM. madrespatanatreated unstressed and stressed rats. There was also an improvement in memory function. Serotonin neurotransmission was also regulated inM. madrespatanatreated rats following immobilization stress with anxiolytic and anti-depressive effects.Conclusion:Based on the current study, it is suggested thatM. madrespatanahas strong antioxidant properties and may be beneficial as dietary supplementation in stress and memory-related conditions.