This study aimed to evaluate the effect of polyfunctional phenolic compound DM1 on the motor behavior, exploratory and anxiety in Wistar rats tested in open field (OF) and in elevated plus-maze (EPM). We used 40 adult Wistar rats divided in 5 groups (n= 8): Control (vehicle), DZP (diazepam-2 mg/kg), DM1-150 mg/kg, DM1-300 mg/kg and DM1-450 mg/kg. The animals were evaluated for a period of five minutes in the OF and EPM, 30 min after administrations (intraperitoneally). The evaluation in OF showed reduction in the locomotion in the DZP, DM1-300 and DM1-450 groups relative to the control group. It increased locomotion in DM1-150 group relative to the DZP group and decreased locomotion in DM1-300 group relative to the group DM1-150. There was decrease of the lifting action in the DZP group relative to the control group. The DM1-150 group presented increase of the lifting action compared to DZP group. It increased the static time (ST) in the DZP group and decreased in the DM1-300 group, both in relation to the control group. The DM1-150 group presented decrease of the ST compared to DZP group. The EPM evaluation presented reducing the number of entries into the open arms in the DZP group relative to the control group. There was reduction in the number of entries into the closed arms in the DZP group relative to the control and increase of this parameter in the DM1-150 group in relation to DZP group. The number of crossings between the closed arms in the DZP group relative to the control group decreased. The overall results suggest that the dose of polyfunctional phenolic compound DM1 above 150 mg have influence on the emotional state of the animals, indicating possible sedative action likely induction of muscle relaxation.

KEY WORDS: Polyphenols; Open field; Elevated plus maze; Behavior.

PALABRAS CLAVE: Polifenoles; Campo abierto; Laberinto en cruz elevada; Comportamiento.