Acute Administration of Nymphaea lotus Increases Body Weight and Exploratory Behaviour in Mice

Background and Aim: The effects on body weight and exploratory behavior following acute administration of the leaves of Nymphaea lotus were determined using mice as experimental animals. Methods: Thirty Swiss white mice were randomly divided into group A, B and C. All the mice had access to clean drinking water ad libitum. Before the neurobehavioral parameters were assessed, the LD50 and the phytochemical screening of the leaves of the plant were determined. The open field maze and the light/dark transition box apparatus were used to determine the level of exploratory behaviors in mice. Results: In the open field maze, the line crosses and rearing frequency were significantly different when compared to control (P<0.01). Stretch Attend Posture frequency (SAP) was significantly higher in the test groups when compared to control (P<0.01). It was also observed that the frequency of grooming in the light/dark transition box decreased in the treated groups when compared to the control group (P<0.05 and at P<0.01). Frequency of transition were significantly higher (P<0.01 and at P<0.001) compared to control. The body weight was significantly higher in the mice treated groups when compared to control (P<0.01). Conclusion: Thus, the leaves of Nymphaea lotus enhances exploratory behavior and increases body weight in mice.