Comparative Study of Anti-Anxiety Effectsof Synthetic and PhytoconstituentCompounds in Swiss Albino Mice

This experimental study sought to comparatively evaluate the anti-anxiety actions of a synthetic anxiolytic drug, diazepam, and a phytoconstituent, Withania somnifera (Ashwagandha), through standardized behaviour models in Swiss albino mice. A randomized controlled trial with three groups control, diazepam-treated, and Withania somnifera-treated was undertaken, in which behaviour modifications were assessed through the Elevated Plus Maze (EPM) and Open Field Test (OFT). The research proved that diazepam as well as Withania somnifera effectively prolonged open arm time and improved locomotor activity, reflecting decreased anxiety levels. Statistical analysis through ANOVA and Tukey's post-hoc test showed that although slightly more potent, the phytoconstituent had similar anxiolytic activity with no statistically significant difference in most measures. This result indicates the possibility of Withania somnifera as an effective and natural substitute for artificial anxiolytics, removing dependency and side effect concerns typical of traditional medication. The work adds new comparative data to the literature and inspires further investigation of plant-based interventions for anxiety disorders, affirming the therapeutic importance of incorporating herbal medicine into general pharmacological treatment.