A Herbal Syrup: Formulation and Antidepressant Effect in Male Rat

Introduction: Herbal medicines play a significant role in global health-care systems. In this investigation, a polyherbal syrup has been reformulated pursuant to Iranian traditional medicine and its antidepressant effect has been evaluated. 
Materials and Methods: The syrup was prepared by decocting a mixture containing: Lavandula angustifolia, Melissa officinalis, Echium amoenum, Cordia myxa, Glycyrrhiza glabra, Ziziphus jujuba, Foeniculum vulgare, Fumaria parviflora, Adiantum capillus-veneris, and Alhagi spp. along with glycerin and potassium sorbate. Physicochemical characteristics of the syrup were examined. An accelerated stability test was carried out for syrup as well. Moreover, antidepressant evaluations were performed by the forced swimming test using the drug as gavage (3.3 mL/kg/day) for three consecutive weeks. The serum levels of serotonin (5-HT), noradrenaline (NA), and brain-derived neurotropic factor (BDNF) were determined in rats as well. Finally histopathological examinations were done on liver, kidney and spleen. 
Results: The herbal syrup was brown in color with a special taste and flavor. Density, pH, viscosity, dry residue, and total phenolics content were 1.085 g/ml, 5.56, 5.35 cP, 15.22%, and 194 mg/100 mL, respectively. The syrup was stable during accelerated stability tests, and no significant changes were observed. The polyherbal syrup exhibited significant antidepressant effects by decreasing immobility time through increasing in NA and 5-HT levels without affecting BDNF levels. Formulated syrup also did not have any toxic effects on the liver, kidney, and spleen. 
Conclusion: The syrup could be an appropriate candidate for pharmaceutical companies after complementary tests such as toxicity and clinical trials.