Background and aims: Zea mays L. (Poaceae) husk extract is used traditionally in Ibibio traditional medicine for the treatment of various diseases such as malaria, pains, inflammatory diseases and central nervous system disorders. Methods: The husk extract (187-748 mg/kg) was evaluated for antidepressant activity in mice using open field, force swimming and tail suspension tests. Determination of median lethal dose (LD50) and phytochemical screening of the husk extract were also carried out using standard methods. Results: The husk extract increased significantly the line crossing, walling and rearing activities of mice in open field test (P<0.05-0.001) and reduced significantly the immobility time in force swimming test (P<0.05-0.001). However, the immobility time in tail suspension tests was significantly increased by the extract (P<0.05-0.001). Conclusion: The husk extract of Z. mays has prominent antidepressant activity which is due to the activities of its phytochemical constituents such as phenolic compounds
