Evaluation of Pistachio Extract Standardized to 1% Melatonin on Pentobarbital Sodium-Induced Sleep in Swiss Albino Mice

Background: Pistachios are rich in melatonin, vitamins and antioxidants, which are known to have potential sedative and hypnotic properties. Previous studies suggest that melatonin, a hormone involved in regulating the sleep-wake cycle, may enhance sleep quality. However, the sleep-inducing effects of pistachio extract combined with melatonin have not been extensively studied, especially in animal models. Objectives: The objective of this study was to evaluate the sleep-inducing effects of Pistachio extract containing 1% melatonin on pentobarbital-induced sleep-in mice. Materials and Methods: Pistachios were extracted using ethanol in a Soxhlet apparatus. The extract was then formulated into doses of 100 mg/kg, 200 mg/kg and 300 mg/ kg body weight, each containing 1% melatonin. Sleep was induced in mice by administering a pentobarbital injection at 30 mg/kg body weight. The sleep onset time and total sleep duration were measured across different experimental groups. Results: The results demonstrated significant sleep-enhancing effects in the experimental groups. Group III (100 mg/kg pistachio extract with 1% melatonin) showed a reduced sleep onset time of 6.13±1.05 min and prolonged total sleep duration to 93.4±4.48 min. Group IV (200 mg/kg pistachio extract with 1% melatonin) exhibited a sleep onset time of 5.89±1.2 min and a sleep duration of 104.67±4.8min, while Group V (300 mg/kg pistachio extract with 1% melatonin) demonstrated a sleep onset time of 5.58±1.4 min and a sleep duration of 109.48±4.66 min. Conclusion: All three experimental groups demonstrated significant, dose-dependent sedative and hypnotic effects, significantly reducing sleep latency and increasing sleep duration. These findings suggest that pistachio extract, rich in melatonin, may effectively enhance sedative effects and improve sleep quality by reducing the time required to fall asleep and extending sleep duration.