Therapeutic Evaluation of Mangifera indica Bark Extract for Antidepressant and Anxiolytic Activities

Abstract

The bark of Mangifera indica (mango tree) has been traditionally used in various medicinal systems for its neuroprotective, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory properties(1,6)  . The present study evaluates the antidepressant and anxiolytic activities of M. indica bark extract in animal models. Methanolic extract was prepared using Soxhlet extraction and tested at doses of100 mg/kg. Behavioral paradigms such as the (Forced Swim Test (FST), Tail Suspension Test (TST) Elevated Plus Maze (EPM and Open Field Test (OFT), Light Dark Apparatus (LDT) were employed. Results showed a significant increase in open arm time (EPM) and center time (OFT), with a marked reduction in immobility time (FST and TST), indicating potent anxiolytic and antidepressant effects comparable to standard drugs (fluoxetine )(8)  . These findings suggest M. indica bark extract as a promising natural alternative for managing depression and anxiety disorders.