Tanacetum polycephalum essential oil reduces depression by increasing the hippocampus antioxidant capacity

Abstract

Background and aims: Depression is a complex, persistent, and incapacitating condition that occurs frequently across the globe. This research sought to examine the antidepressant properties of Tanacetum polycephalum essential oil. Methods: Fifty-six mice were randomly assigned to seven groups: (1) the control group received normal saline (10 ml/kg); (2) the depressed model group received Reserpine (5 mg/kg); (3 to 6) groups received Reserpine and Tanacetum polycephalum essential oil at doses of 25, 50, 75, and 100 mg/kg, respectively; and (7) The positive control group was administered Fluoxetine (20 mg/kg) in combination with Reserpine. All injections were administered intraperitoneally. Depression was assessed using the Forced Swimming (FST), Splash, and Open Field (OFT) tests. Malondialdehyde (MDA) levels and total antioxidant capacity (TAC) were measured in hippocampus and serum samples. Results: The administration of Reserpine notably prolonged immobility duration in the FST (P<0.001), while Tanacetum polycephalum essential oil significantly reduced it at all four doses (P<0.05, P<0.001). The duration and frequency of licking in the splash test were significantly reduced in the Reserpine group (P<0.001). All doses of Tanacetum polycephalum essential oil significantly increased the duration and frequency of licking (P<0.001). In the Reserpine group, the number of line crossings, rearing, and grooming behaviors was significantly reduced (P<0.01). At doses of 50, 75, and 100 mg/kg, Tanacetum polycephalum essential oil markedly enhanced these behaviors (P<0.001). Treatment with Reserpine led to a marked reduction in TACand elevated levels of MDA in the hippocampus and serum, whereas Tanacetum polycephalum essential oil at different doses increased TAC and decreased MDA levels (P<0.001). Conclusion: Tanacetum polycephalum essential oil demonstrated significant efficacy in alleviating depression-like behaviors caused by Reserpine. This effect is likely linked to its ability to mitigate oxidative stress parameters. The findings highlight its potential as a natural antidepressant agent. Further research is encouraged to confirm its therapeutic applications.

Keywords: Depression, Essential Oil, Malondialdehyde, Grooming, Rearing, Total antioxidant capacity