Abstract
Background and aims: R. graveolens has demonstrated potential in reducing anxiety and improving motor balance through its antioxidant properties. Rich in flavonoids like rutin, it helps combat oxidative stress, which is linked to anxiety and locomotor disorders. Studies suggest its neuroactive compounds may support neural function and restore balance. Methods: In this study, 56 eight-week-old Balb/c male mice were used and divided into seven groups. The control group, which was not subjected to cold stress, received normal saline (NS) at a dose of 10 ml/kg intraperitoneally for five days. Three extract groups were exposed to cold stress and administered R. graveolens extract at doses of 30, 100, and 300 mg/kg intraperitoneally. The normal saline group was exposed to cold stress and received NS at a dose of 10 ml/kg intraperitoneally. The diazepam group was received diazepam at a dose of 1 mg/kg intraperitoneally and exposed to cold stress for five days. The seventh group received an effective dose of 300 mg/kg of R. graveolens extract intraperitoneally for five days, administered 15 minutes after the injection of flumazenil at a dose of 3 mg/kg. Elevated plus maze were conducted to assess anxiety, and the rotarod test was performed to evaluate psychomotor coordination. Subsequently, under deep anesthesia using ketamine and xylazine, blood samples were collected, the mice were decapitated, and their hippocampus was removed. Biochemical tests were then conducted to measure antioxidant capacity and malondialdehyde levels in both the hippocampus and serum. Results: Stress significantly reduced both the number of entries into and the duration of time spent in the open arm of the EPM (p<0.001). Locomotor coordination in the Nacl group exposed to cold stress was reduced compared to the control group. R. graveolens extract, at all three doses, increased locomotor coordination and balance movements. Additionally, the extract at all three doses enhanced the antioxidant capacity of the hippocampus and prolonged the duration of stay in the open arm. Conclusion: R. graveolens extract reduced anxiety, improved balance, and enhanced hippocampus antioxidant capacity.