Evaluation of the anti–depressant activity of Myristica fragrans (Nutmeg) in male rats

Abstract

Objective: The present study was undertaken to evaluate anti-depressant activity of Myristica fragrans(MS). Materials and Methods: Male Wistar rats were subjected to imipramine and herbal extract ofMS for their antidepressant activity using Forced Swimming Test (FST), Reserpine Reversal Test (RRT), Haloperidol-Induced Catalepsy (HIC), and Pentobarbitone Sleeping Time (PST). Results: Administration of MS and imipramine revealed a statistically significant reduction in immobility time in FST, RRT, and protection against HIC, compared to the control group. However, there was no significant potentiation of PST. Conclusion: Our study demonstrated the potential antidepressant activity of MS.

Keywords

• Antidepressant activity
• Imipramine
• Myristica fragrans