Antioxidative Effects of Hydro-Alcoholic Extract and Essential Oil of Quercus brantii Exerts Anti-Depressant-Like Effect and Improvement of Memory Defect in Progesterone-Induced Postpartum Depression in Rats

Abstract

Background: Depression and memory disorders are known to be associated with increased oxidative stress. There is evidence suggesting that Quercus brantii (Q. brantii) possesses antioxidant properties. Objectives: This study aims to investigate the impact of Q. brantii hydro-alcoholic extract and oil on cognitive dysfunction in a postpartum depression (PPD) model and on oxidant/antioxidant activity in the hippocampus of adult female rats. Methods: Forty-two female Wistar rats (200 - 250 g) were randomly divided into six groups. PPD was induced by chronic intraperitoneal administration (5 days) of progesterone at a dose of 5 mg/kg, and three days after discontinuation, depressive behavior was assessed using a forced swimming test. Simultaneously, Quercus brantii hydro-alcoholic extract (100 mg/kg) and oil (45%) were administered. Spatial memory and locomotor activity were evaluated 24 hours after training using the Morris water maze and open field tests, respectively. The hippocampus tissue of all rats was used to evaluate oxidant-antioxidant factors, Vitamin D, and corticosterone levels. Results: Quercus brantii extract significantly reduced depression (P < 0.05). Treatment with Q. brantii extract and oil improved spatial memory and learning (P < 0.05). The Q. brantii extract increased levels of SOD, GSH, catalase, and vitamin D while decreasing MDA levels; additionally, Q. brantii oil increased SOD and vitamin D levels and decreased MDA levels in the brain (P < 0.05). Conclusions: Quercus brantii extract and oil appear to have beneficial effects on learning and memory impairment in a PPD-induced model, which may be associated with their biochemical effects on the brain.