The ethanolic extract of the flowering tops of
Rosa Damascena
(Rosaceae) was assessed for effect on the central nervous system (CNS) using a number of neuropharmacological experimental models in mice. The extract produced a dose-dependent reduction of the onset and duration of pentobarbitone-induced hypnosis, reduction of locomotor and exploratory activities in the open field, hole cross tests. At the same dose levels, the extract dose-dependently inhibited acetic acid-induced writhing in mice. These results suggest that the extract possess CNS depressant activity.
