Original Research Paper NEUROPHARMACOLOGICAL INVESTIGATION OF JUGLANS REGIA FRUIT EXTRACT WITH SPECIAL REFERENCE TO ANXIETY

Walnuts are a rich source of unsaturated fatty acids, vitamin E, fiber, magnesium, potassium . Compared with most other nuts, which contain mostly monounsaturated fatty acids (MUFA), walnuts are highly enriched in omega-6 and omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA), which are essential dietary fatty acids. Omega-3 fatty acid supplementation may be useful as an adjunct to current antidepressant therapy or alone. Anxiolytic effect of Hydroalcoholic extract of Juglans regia was ascertained on the basis of effect on exploration behaviour and anxiety in elevated plus maze, zero maze, and light-dark model. Juglans regia extract produced significant effect on exploration and time spent in open area of elevated plus maze and zero maze. Extract also increased time spent in lighten area in light and dark model. Increase in number of head twitches was also observed at selected doses. Thus it can be concluded that Hydroalcoholic extract of Juglans regia possess significant anxiolytic potential. This effect may be due to presence of Omega-3 fatty acids, which are found in Juglans regia.