Anxiolytic effect of Ferula assafoetida L. in rodents

Ferula assafoetida 'asafoetida' solution (FAS) has been used in Arab traditional medicine as an intestinal antiseptic, carminative and variety of gastric ailments. It has also been used as a neuroprotective agent for the treatment of epilepsy and hysteria. However, the neuro-pharmacological studies on their gum-resin have not received due attention. The present study was undertaken to study the anxiolytic, analgesic and sedative properties of asafoetida in rodents, using elevated plus maze, hole-board test, hot plate and motor activity meter. Diazepam was used as a reference anxiolytic agent in this study. The results of this study showed a dose-dependent anxiolytic and analgesic activity of asafoetida, with a mild sedative effect in high doses. Compared to diazepam, the asafoetida seems to be a better alternative for the treatment of anxiety disorders. However, further experimental and clinical studies are warranted to accurately assess its safety and efficacy for treatment of chronic anxiety.