Analysis of anxiolytic and anti-depressant potential of Bombyx mori in in vivo mouse mode

Objectives Anxiety and depression are common mental health problems that affect people’s quality of life all around the world, and medicinal plants have been utilized for centuries. The anxiolytic and depressive activities of a hydro-alcoholic extract of Bombyx mori L. (Silkworm) were investigated using animal models in this study. Methods Anxiolytic activity was measured using an elevated plus maze model (EPMM) and open field test (OFT). The antidepressant activity was evaluated using the tail suspension test and forced swim test (FST). The EPMM recorded the amount of time spent in both closed and open arms. A period of unchanging status was detected for every animal for around 300 s in FST. One-way analysis of variance was used to analyze results, and values were considered significant where P < 0.05. Results Anxiolytic action of B. mori through OFT revealed dose-dependent increases in the frequency of line crossings and rearings at the dose of 200 mg/kg b.w. comparable with that of Diazepam. In EPMM, extract-treated groups spent more time in open arms and less time in closed arms compared to the control group. B. mori increased mobility time while decreasing immobility time in both experimental animals in a dose-dependent manner. B. mori was well-tolerated and showed no signs of toxicity or mortality up to a dose of 5 g/kg. Conclusion B. mori displayed anxiolytic and antidepressant effects, indicating its promise as a natural treatment. The extract was well tolerated at tested levels, suggesting its safety for further research and possible medicinal applications.