Comparative Efficacy Study of the Antidepressant Effect of St. John’s Wort (Hypericum Perforatum) and Escitalopram in Animal Models

Abstract

Background: The rise in interest for complementary and alternative therapies reflects a growing inclination towards natural remedies for health management. Despite the proven effectiveness of conventional antidepressant drugs, their association with adverse effects limits their use. The search for alternative drugs with minimal or no adverse effects has necessitated the interest in St. John's Wort (SJW) (Hypericum perforatum). 

Aim and Objectives: The study aims to compare the effects of SJW with escitalopram in treating depression in animal models.

Materials and Methods: The antidepressant effect of escitalopram (1-3 mg/kg) and SJW (10-30 mg/kg) were evaluated in rats and mice using the forced swim and tail suspension test. Chronic forced swim tests involve repeated acute tests over 7 days. The experiment involved 50 rats and 25 mice. Immobility time was measured and compared using inferential statistical analysis.

Results: Low doses of escitalopram and SJW had similar behavioral effects in the forced swim and tail suspension tests. However, only higher doses of escitalopram and SJW showed significant antidepressant effects compared to the control group. These effects were not sustained after seven days of chronic treatment.

Conclusion: The study demonstrates that SJW and escitalopram have comparable antidepressant effects in behavioral models. In contrast to acute administration, the chronic administration for seven days does not show a significant impact.