Acorus calamus Decrease Voluntary Alcohol Intake in Wistar Rat

Abstract

Background and Objective: Alcohol dependence is one of major health problems in worldwide and being a risk factor of morbidity and mortality. Today, based on mechanism of action, certain anticonvulsants such as topiramate, oxcarbazepine and sodium valproate are used for the treatment of alcohol dependence and alcohol intake. As many medicinal plants, including Acorus calamus (AC), have anticonvulsant effect, it might be possible to use for treatment of alcohol dependence and reduce alcohol intake.

Methods: Wistar rats were given free access to ethanol–sucrose solutions during 2-hour sessions for 8 weeks. On treatment phase (Days 1–10), animals received pre-treatment of 3% tween 20 (control) or AC 200, 400 mg/kg (1 h before alcohol). After that, the animals continued to be given free access to a 10% ethanol–5% sucrose solution during 2-hour sessions. Volume of alcohol intake (ml/d), water intake (ml/d) food intake (g) and body weight were recorded.

Results: The results showed that AC 200 and 400 mg/kg could significantly decrease alcohol, water and food intake.  For monitored drug-induced weight changes, AC 400 mg/kg treated groups were significant decreased body weight of rats.

Conclusion: The results suggested that Acorus calamus decreased alcohol intake. So, Acorus calamus might be one of medicinal plant for treatment alcohol dependence.