A hydroalcoholic blackberry leaf extract improved glucose tolerance and body composition and attenuated depression-like symptoms in ovariectomized rats.

Blackberry leaves (Morus nigra) are used in menopause to relieve hot flashes and night sweats have been investigated metabolic disorders. However, few studies its effects on behavioral disorders when associated with menopause. This study evaluated the of a hydroalcoholic extract M. nigra (MN) body composition, glucose tolerance, depression anxiety-like behaviors ovariectomized rats. For this purpose, 36 female Wistar rats were divided into groups: C – control; COvx ovariectomized; MNOvx given MN at 400 mg.kg-1 mass/day. Body composition was assessed by DEXA, tolerance oral test, forced swimming elevated plus maze tests, respectively. Food intake mass gain higher for MNOvx, followed (p<0.05). The group gained less fat than (p<0.05) more tolerant compared In maze, remained time open arms longer closed swimming, immobility COvx, protected from gain, improved attenuated depression-like behavior. Phytoestrogens other bioactive compounds may be involved these effects.