The anxiolytic effect of some plant extracts in clinical trials and animal models

The phenomenon of anxiety remains poorly understood and there is much to be learnt about its’s effective treatment. Here we discuss the data of available scientific literature concerning the use of plant derived extracts in the treatment of anxiety. Study of the treating effects of natural alternatives to prescription drugs is very important in regard to limitations of current drug therapies. Significance of the study of treating efficacy of endemic plant species, endemic to Georgia in particular, and the use of animal models, such as rat grooming and rat behavior in maze, for evaluation of the anxiolytic efficacy of phytomedicines is discussed as well. We conclude, that medical as well as experimental trials in animal models of anxiety provide strong argument for the use of plant extracts as an alternative to the current drug therapies for anxiety