Involvement of 5-HT_1A and GABA_A receptors in the anxiolytic-like effects of Cinnamomum cassia in mice

An elevated plus maze (EPM) test was used to determine if the 5-HT_1A, GABA_A, and benzodiazepine receptors play a role in the anxiolytic-like effects of a 50% EtOH extract of Cinnamomum cassia (C. cassia) in mice. A single treatment with C. cassia (750 mg/kg, p.o.) significantly increased the number of entries into and the time spent in the open arms of the EPM compared with the controls. A repeated treatment with C. cassia (100 mg/kg, 5 days, p.o.) significantly increased the time spent in the open arms of the EPM. Moreover, WAY 100635, (+)-bicuculline, and flumazenil blocked the effect of C. cassia. However, there were no changes in the locomotor activity and horizontal wire test observed in any group compared with the controls. Taken together, these results show that C. cassia has no adverse effects, such as myorelaxant effects, and might be an effective anxiolytic agent by regulating the serotonergic and GABAergic system.