European Journal of Biomedical and Pharmaceutical Sciences

HONEY: A SWEET WAY TO CURE PSYCHOSIS

Milind Parle* and Arzoo

ABSTRACT

Honey, a natural sweetener derived from insects is not only a sweetener but it’s a unique gift from nature to mankind. Honey has been used since ancient times to fulfil medical and domestic needs. It contains proteins, enzymes, amino acids (glycine etc), minerals, vitamins, aromatic compounds and polyphenols, which contribute to its magical therapeutic power. Unfortunately, there are no reports available in literature about the neuropharmacological profile of Honey. Therefore, this study was undertaken to explore the anti-psychotic potential of Honey. Honey was administered orally chronically to rodents in two different concentrations 17.5ml/kg and 35ml/kg for 21 days. The anti-psychotic potential of Honey was assessed by using pharmacological models such as Ketamine-induced stereotypic behavior in mice, swim -induced grooming attempts in mice and pole climbing avoidance response in rats. Honey remarkably reduced the Ketamine induced falling, weaving, head-bobbing and turning behaviour in mice. It also reduced swim induced grooming attempts in mice. Furthermore, it reduced significantly the conditioned avoidance response in rats as reflected by reduction in time taken to climb the pole. Interestingly in our biochemical estimations, both, brain dopamine level and acetyl cholinesterase activity were remarkably reduced by Honey. Whereas, brain glutathione levels were remarkably increased by Honey, thereby suggesting enhanced scavenging of free radicals. These findings coupled together reveal the anti-psychotic potential of Honey.

Keywords: Honey, Schizophrenia, Ketamine, Dopamine, Glutathione, Anti- oxidant.