Antianxiety Studies on Leaves of Clitoria Ternatea Linn a High Potential Medicinal Plant

Ajay kumar garg*1, Khushboo shrimali2, Ranjan Kumar Singh3, Chennu MM Prasada Rao4 and Rajeswari Tanniru5

Keywords: Leaves; Methanol; Anxiety; Alprazolam; Clitoria Ternatea

Introduction

Depression is a severe mood disorder that is marked by an inability to feel pleasure in normally pleasurable activities. insomnia or hypersomnia, psychomotor agitation, exhaustion, a sense of inadequacy or humiliation, trouble focusing, and recurrent impulses to commit suicide or fatality [1]. The presence of subjective ambiguity concerning the distress-inducing stimulus or scenario distinguishes anxiety from terror. For instance, the perception of potential negative outcomes causes anxiety, whereas the present presence of a stimulus that is damaging causes dread. Pathological anxiety involves chronic, excessive worry or fear about things or circumstances, as well as recurrent panic attacks, and is larger than what would be expected for a specific situation [2].

The great majority of the world’s population relies heavily on herbal medicines to treat their illnesses and maintain good health. People all around the world utilize conventional therapy, which seems centered on organic material. This puts them under duress and interferes with their ability to operate, including having frequent panic attacks and worrying excessively about things [3]. Patients who suffer from stress, anxiety, insomnia, moderate depression, and related issues can benefit from nervine herbs. The traditional use of these plants dates back a long time, and they seem to be both secure and efficient [4].

Many plants have been recommended in the ancient system of herbal medication for the rehabilitation of Neurodegenerative disorders. The well-known plant Clitoria ternatea L., which alludes to the Papilionaceae relatives, is recognized as a butterfly pea furthermore sankhpushpi. However, the plant has not been extensively examined to support its historical claims. To support historical assertions, it was decided to investigate the plant C. ternatea’s anti- anxiety properties [5]. Clitoria ternatea, a member of the Fabaceae family, is a perennial climbing plant that is native to Southeast Asia. The plant’s striking blue-violet flowers and unique leaf shape have earned it the common name Butterfly Pea. Over the years, it has been revered for its ornamental value, as well as its historical and cultural importance. Figure 1 shows the flowers and foliage of plants.

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Botanical Characteristics

Clitoria ternatea is characterized by its slender stems, alternate leaves, and vibrant pea-like flowers. The flowers exhibit a vivid blue or purple coloration, with a distinctive structure that resembles the female reproductive organ of a butterfly, hence its common name. The plant’s roots, leaves, flowers, and seeds all hold significance in traditional medicine and culinary practices.

Phytochemical Constituents

Extensive research has revealed that Clitoria ternatea is a rich source of bioactive compounds. Flavonoids, anthocyanins, alkaloids, and phenolic compounds are among the major phytochemical constituents present in the plant. These compounds contribute to its vibrant coloration and potential health benefits.

Traditional Uses

Clitoria ternatea has a long history of use in traditional medicine across Asia, including Ayurveda and Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). Different parts of the plant have been employed to address a wide range of health issues, such as promoting cognitive function, reducing inflammation, managing stress, and supporting overall well-being. The plant has also been utilized for its reputed aphrodisiac properties and as a natural dye in various cultures.

Pharmacological Potential

Recent scientific investigations have shed light on the potential pharmacological activities of Clitoria ternatea. Studies suggest that the plant may possess antioxidant, anti- inflammatory, neuroprotective, and anxiolytic properties, which align with some of its traditional uses. Furthermore, Clitoria ternatea extracts have shown promise in preclinical studies for their potential role in cognitive enhancement and memory improvement.

Culinary and Nutraceutical Applications

Beyond its traditional medicinal uses, Clitoria ternatea has found its way into culinary arts and the nutraceutical industry. The flowers are utilized to create vibrant and visually appealing beverages, teas, desserts, and natural food colorings. The anthocyanin-rich extracts from the flowers are also being explored for their potential health-promoting effects in the nutraceutical sector. Clitoria ternatea, with its captivating appearance and diverse bioactive compounds, holds significant potential for various applications in the fields of medicine, nutrition, and aesthetics.

Continued research is essential to unlock the full range of its therapeutic benefits and to validate its traditional uses. As global interest in natural remedies and functional foods grows, Clitoria ternatea stands as a botanical treasure with a promising future. In conclusion, Clitoria ternatea, or Butterfly Pea, is a captivating plant that has captured the attention of researchers, herbalists, chefs, and consumers alike. Its rich history, cultural significance, and potential health benefits make it a subject of fascination and exploration across various disciplines. As we continue to uncover its secrets and harness its potential, Clitoria ternatea remains a symbol of nature’s intricate beauty and the potential of botanical wonders.

Behavioral Studies

Trained rats were assessed for their behavioral change by using an elevated plus maze, the Neuroprotective effect of Clitoria ternatea, and according to the procedure.

Elevated Plus Maze

For evaluating learning, memory, and anxiety in rodents The EPM is widely used. Animals were placed at the center of the apparatus under silent and dark conditions. The total time spent in open and closed arms was recorded.

Statistical Analysis

Data from experiments are presented as the mean standard error of the mean (SEM). The one-way ANOVA was used in the statistical analysis to determine the differences between the two groups. AtP  < 0.01 data were deemed significant.

Results

The antianxiety profile showing the mean number of entries and mean time spent in the open arms of the vehicle, standard drug alprazolam, and Methanolic extracts of Clitoria ternatea leaves are depicted in Figures 1 and Figure 2, respectively and the antianxiety activity profile is shown in Table 1.

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Discussion

Although Clitoria is traditionally utilized to address nervous disorders, the scientific community currently lacks reports that assess its potential anxiolytic properties. The elevated plus maze is a widely accepted animal model for studying anxiety, having been validated for use with both rats and mice [6]. An anxiolytic agent is expected to increase the frequency of entries Into the open arms and extend the duration spent in these arms of the EPM.this effect is thought to be mediated through the GABAA (γ-aminobutyric acid type A) receptor complex, which justifies the inclusion of alprazolam as a positive control in the study (Figure 3).

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In Vivo Study for the Assessment of Anti- Anxiety Activity of Plant Drug

The results were recorded and calculated.

Conclusion

The findings of this investigation point to the potential value of this plant material as a source of knowledge and as appropriate benchmarks for assessing the degree of this plant’s functionality in subsequent research or proposal. The active components responsible for the plant’s anti-anxiety action are most likely its flavonoids.

Acknowledgment

The authors appreciate the board’s support. The organization of Raffles University, Neemrana Dist Alwar (Rajasthan). It has the authors’ gratitude. For providing all the resources required to complete this work, including the facilities.