The Effect of Bitter Kola (Garcinia Kola) on Open Field Test

The open field test is a common measure of exploring behaviour and general activity in both mice and rat. This study was carried out to investigate the open field movement effect of administration of Bitter kola (Garcinia kola) extract on wistar rats. Fifteen adult wistar rats were purchased, weighed and divided into three groups of five per group. They were allowed access to rat feed and water ad-libitum for two weeks period of acclimatization. Different dosages of Garcinia kola extract were administered to group two (200mg/kg body weight) and group three (300mg/kg body weight) respectively, while group one (control group) received clean water and rat feed. The study lasted for four weeks (28 days). A dose dependent response was observed. Open field movement test was determined using open field apparatus and light-dark transition box.Results indicate that high dose and prolonged duration of administration of the extract decreased food intake, increased defecation and urination, reduces body weight and increase sexual drive compared to the control. An increasedanxiety and decreased exploratory activity was observed.

Key Words: Garcinia Kola, Open Field Test, Locomotion Activity