Antidepressant-like Effect of Baccharis Ilimita in the Forced Swimming Test in Mice

Abstract

The aim of the present work was to investigate if flowers extract (FE) and leaf extract (LE) of Baccharis ilimita (Asteraceae) induced antidepressant-like effect. Previous phytochemical investigations have shown the presence of structurally and biogenetically diverse secondary metabolites in this gene, such as flavonoids, diterpenes and triterpenes. Male Swiss mice were injected with FE and LE (12.5; 25.0 or 50.0 mg/kg; i.p.) or saline (S) and after 30 min, they were tested in the forced swimming test (FST). The results showed that FE and LE (50 mg/kg) decreased the duration of immobility time in comparison to the control group (S: 114.8s ± 10.23; FE50: 47.52s ± 9.45; LE50: 53.36s ± 10.38). However, the 12.5 and 25.0 mg/kg doses had no effect on the immobility time in comparison to the control group. The FE and LE did not produce any change in ambulation in mice when tested in an open field. The imipramine (IMP; 15.0 mg/kg i.p.) was used as the positive control. Our results suggested that FE and LE of Baccharis ilimita presents antidepressant-like effect in mice. Such results suggest that the antidepressant-like effect may be attributed at lest partially the flavonoids or the interaction of the active(s) principle(s) present in this plant.

Descritores:

Baccharis ilimita. Forced swimming test. Depression. Mice.