Studies on Anti-Depressant Activity of Perment-A Polyherbal Formulation in Experimental Animal Models

Aim: The present study was designed to evaluate the anti depressant activity of a Poly herbal formulation "PERMENT" in experimental animal models.

Method: Anti depressant activity was evaluated in experimental different either sex animal models. The degree of anti depressant activity was determined by measuring the immobility time in Forced swim test and Tail suspension test, by counting the number of failure to escape and number of avoidance response in Learned helplessness test, Reserpine induced test the rectal temperature is determined and the number of passages of rodents through the hole from one chamber to another in Hole cross as a confirmatory test.

Result: Animals treated with all three doses of PERMENT (53.85, 102.77 and 154.16mg/kg) witnessed a decrease in their immobility times in FST and TST which was significant when compared with control. Similarly, animals treated with Imipramine (15mg/kg), as expected showed a significant decrease in the immobility time. In learned Helplessness Test, the PERMENT treated rats showed significant increase in avoidance response and decreased in escape failure in response to shock treatment. In Reserpine Induced Test the initial rectal temperature is determined by electronic thermometer. Hole cross test utilizes the number of passages of rodents through the hole from one chamber to another.

Conclusion: The study revealed that the "PERMENT" possess a significant anti depressant activity.