Antidepressant Activity of Phyllanthus Amarus Ethanolic Extract in Experimental Animal Model.

Objectives: The aim of the study was to investigate the antidepressant effect of Phyllanthus amarus ethanolic extract in Wistar albino rats. Methods: The ethanolic extract of leaves of Phyllanthus amarus [PAEE] at a dose of 100mg/kg/body weight was administered orally for ten days. On tenth day, after one hour, the animals were taken for forced swimming test, to assess the level of depression. Results: The results indicate PAEE has significant antidepressant activity Conclusions: The antidepressant activity of Phyllanthus amarus can be due to its effect on brain neurotransmitters or due to antioxidant property.