SCREENING OF ANTI-ANXIETY ACTIVITY OF UNRIPE FRUITS OF MUSA PARADISIACA LINN

The alcoholic extract of unripe fruits of Musa paradisiaca Linn. (Musaceae) was evaluated for antianxiety activity by using operant behavior (behavioral disinhibition) model of anxiety in albino rats. Phytochemical investigation of alcoholic extract revealed the presence of flavonoids, amino acids,vitamins and carbohydrates. Alcoholic extract showed significant anti-punishment and anti-frustration activities at dose level of 500 mg/kg/day for 5 days which is comparable to standard drug, diazepam 5mg/kg. The presence of amino acid and flavonoids in alcoholic extract could be attributed for the antianxiety and other CNS depressant activity.