Evaluation of pharmacological potentials of the aerial part of Achyranthes aspera L.: in vivo, in vitro and in silico approaches

Achyranthes aspera L. (Prickly Chaff flower) is an imperative Asian herb that has been known for numerous healing powers. The aim of this research is to investigate the pharmacological i.e., antidepressant and anxiolytic properties of the methanol extract of aerial part of A. aspera (MEAA) by in vivo and in silico approaches. Additionally, thrombolytic potential of the crude extract has also been explored. The antidepressant and anxiolytic investigations were performed by force swimming test (FST), tail suspension test (TST), and hole board test (HBT) in mice, whereas clot lysis activity test was conducted using thrombolytic experimental method. Furthermore, in silico studies were appraised with Discovery studio, PyRx, UCSF Chimera whereas, PASS prediction, and ADME/T was implemented using online tools. Treatment with MEAA revealed significant (p < 0.05) reduction of immobility time in FST and TST, increased head dipping and decreased the latency of time in HBT. Besides, MEAA produced significant (p < 0.001) clot lysis activity at a minimum dose. In the computer-aided approach, among all the proteins, the docking score has been revealed ranging from - 2.31 kcal/mol to - 7.4 kcal/mol. Spathulenol, diazepam and hydroquinone showed the best binding affinity and all compounds were found safe in ADME/T study. The outcomes of this research demonstrate that MEAA may provide potential for mitigating depression, anxiety, and coagulation.