Comparison of antidepressant effect of Melissa officinalis L. hydroalcoholic extract with fluoxetine in male mice

Background: Depression is a common psychological disorder and recent data confirm the increasing prevalence of this disease in the world. So far, antidepressant effects of many plants have been evaluated and some are accepted in the treatment of depression. The aim of the present study was to determine the antidepressant effect of Melissa Officinalis L. compared to fluoxetine. Materials and methods: In the present study, the antidepressant effect of Melissa officinalis L. was studied and compared with fluoxetine in experimental groups of mice using FST (Forced Swimming Test), TST (Tail Suspension Test). Melissa officinalis L. extract with different doses of 600,800, and 1000 mg/kg was prescribed by gavage for 7 days. One way ANOVA was used to analyze data by SPSS software. Results: Among the different doses, 600 mg/kg Melissa officinalis L. extract and fluoxetine had the same effect in the reduction of depression. Conclusion: The antidepressant effect of Melissa officinalis L. extract is probably induced by the variation of monoamines release in central nervous system.