Evaluation of the anxiolytic and Antidepressant Effects of Crocus sativus L (saffron)and Mentha spicata (spearmint) in Wistar Albino Rats

Abstract

Background
Depression and anxiety are prevalent psychiatric disorders often linked to disturbances in serotonin and other neurotransmitter systems. Although selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) are commonly prescribed, they may cause side effects, leading to increased interest in alternative herbal therapies. Crocus sativus (saffron) and Mentha spicata (spearmint) are known for their individual anxiolytic and antidepressant properties, but their combined synergistic effects have not been fully explored.

Aim:To evaluate the synergistic anxiolytic and antidepressant effects of Crocus sativus and Mentha spicata combination extracts in Wistar albino rats using behavioral paradigms.

Methodology: Thirty Wistar albino rats were divided into five groups (n=6) and administered varying doses of Crocus sativus + Mentha spicata combinations, diazepam (1 mg/kg), or saline (control). Aqueous extracts were prepared via maceration. Three fixed-dose combinations (25+200, 50+250, and 75+300 mg/kg) were selected. Behavioral assessments included the T-Maze Test, Light-Dark Chamber Test, Tail Suspension Test (TST), and Forced Swim Test (FST). Statistical significance was analyzed using one-way ANOVA and tukey post-hoc.

Results:High-dose Crocus+Mentha (75+300 mg/kg) significantly improved performance across all tests, comparable to standard drugs (fluoxetine/diazepam). In the FST and TST, it significantly reduced immobility duration (P = 0.0021 and P = 0.0018 respectively). In the light-dark test, time spent in the light chamber increased significantly (P = 0.0021). T-maze results showed increased open arm entries and time (P = 0.014), indicating reduced anxiety. Lower doses showed trends toward efficacy but were not statistically significant.

Conclusion:The combination of Crocus sativus and Mentha spicata exhibited dose-dependent anxiolytic and antidepressant effects, with the highest dose providing results comparable to standard pharmacological treatments. These findings support the potential use of this herbal combination as a natural alternative for managing anxiety and depression, meriting further investigation.