3. Adaptogenic activity of a Siddha medicinal plant: Sida cordata

The present study was carried out to investigate mechanism of adaptogenic activity of a siddha medicinal plant, Sida cordata (whole plant). Forced swimming test (FST) is a screening model for antidepressants / adaptogens. Two swimming sessions were conducted: a 15min pre-test followed 24h later by a 6min test. The total duration of immobility behaviour was recorded during the second 6min test. Mouse was judged immobile, when it remained floating in water, in an upright position making only small movements to keep the head above water. The experimental animals were euthanized and their brains were removed immediately, and the prefrontal cortexes (PFC) were dissected out on ice for biochemical analysis. LD50 of the test drug was found to be greater than 2000mg/kg body weight. The animals treated with total extract (100mg/kg) and (200mg/kg) showed significant decrease in the immobility period with simultaneous increase in anti oxidant markers as well as adrenaline and serotonin levels. In conclusion, the above study indicates positive adaptogenic activity of the extract Sida cordata (whole plant), by forced swim test and resultant biochemical studies.