Filipino traditional healers have been using Centella asciatica (L.), locally known as "takip-kuhol", as a stimulant and brain tonic. Coloma et al found its leaf decoction comparable to Fluoxetine in decreasing immobility time in mice with induced depression. Objectives: This study was then conceived to establish antidepressant properties of Centella asciatica (L.) (takip-kuhol) leaf extract in a mice model using a systematic purification of leaf extract and comparing it with Fluoxetine, a known antidepressant. Method: This is a single blind experimental study using completely randomized design wherein Centella asciatica (L.) (takip-kuhol) leaves were percolated in 60 percent ethanol, then evaporated to extract a purified form. Effective antidepressant dose50 (ED50) was determined using the Forced-swimming test. Centella asciatica (L.) (takip-kuhol) ED50 was then compared with Fluoxetine 10 mg/kg and NSS 0.1 ml. to establish antidepressant properties through measurement of immobility time in the Forced-swimming test. ED50 of Centella asciatica (L.) (takip-kuhol) was found to be 37.8 mg/kg. Results: It was noted to be statistically comparable to Fluoxetine 10 mg/kg in improving immobility time at t0.05 of 2.101 and F0.05 of 3.39 (t=0.24 and F=0.09). Both Fluoxetine 10 mg/kg and Centella asciatica (L.) (takip-kuhol) 37.8 mg/kg were found to be statistically not comparable to NSS 0.1 ml at these levels (t=3.89 and 4.97, respectively and F=14.72 and 17.11, respectively). Conclusion: Hence this study concludes that Centella asciatica (L.) (takip-kuhol) has comparable antidepressant properties as Fluoxetine 10 mg/kg in mice, and is better than placebo in improving induced depression.
PLANTS, MEDICINAL ; ANTIDEPRESSIVE AGENTS