Phytochemical characterization, toxicity and pharmacological profile of the central effects of the fixed fruit pulp oil of Mauritia flexuosa LF (buriti)

Anxiety and depression are mental disorders that have been exponentially increasing over the last decades. Psychopharmacology emerged to try to alleviate the symptoms of these disorders; however, the side effects and the time it takes to achieve the desired effect are factors that decrease the search for and adherence to treatment. To remedy this situation, new compounds capable of improving the performance of these medications and reducing their adverse effects have been sought. The use of medicinal plants has been widely employed for this purpose. Mauritia flexuosa F.L., a palm tree with high incidence in Brazil, has been heavily targeted as all its parts are usable. The objective of this study is to evaluate the effects of fixed oil from the fruit of the buriti palm in models of depression and anxiety. The phytochemical profile of this oil and its toxicity were also investigated. The experiments conducted included the open field, rotarod, forced swim, and elevated plus maze tests. As a result, it was observed that the fixed oil from buriti palm presented 18 compounds, with elaidic acid being the major one, and showed no signs of toxicity. However, it demonstrated a possible stimulating activity in the open field test and had no effect on the motor system in the rotarod test. Furthermore, it exhibited an antidepressant- like effect in the forced swim test but an anxiety-like effect in the elevated plus maze test. Therefore, buriti oil may potentially be used in new formulations to assist in the treatment of anxiety and depression.