A traditional poly-herbal formulation improves cognitive function in C57BL/6 mice

Abstract

Abstract Introduction: Khamira Gawzaban Ambari Jadwar Ood Saleeb Wala (KGAJOS) is a polyherbal compound Unani Pharmacopoeial formulation described in traditional Unani texts as Muqawwi-e-Aza-e-Raeesa (tonic for brain, heart, liver and stomach). KGAJOS is reported to possess anxiolytic and antidepressant activity in mice. Though it is used clinically for various neurological conditions, preclinical efficacy of this formulation in learning and memory enhancement / improvement is not established. Method: KGAJOS was evaluated for cognitive function improvement activity using Morris water maze test in C57BL/6 mice. Piracetam was used as positive control for comparison. Anymaze video tracking software was used for tracking the path of mice in pool as per standard protocol. Results: During probe trial in Morris water maze test, a significant increase in time spent in platform quadrant was observed at 1000 and 1500 mg/kg bw of KGAJOS (p<0.01 and 0.001, respectively) as well as in piracetam group (p<0.01) compared to vehicle control. Latency to reach the platform quadrant (escape latency) was significantly reduced (p<0.001) in piracetam and KGAJOS group at 1000 and 1500 mg/kg bw compared to vehicle control. No change in time spent in platform quadrant and escape latency was observed at 500 mg/kg bw of KGAJOS. Conclusions: Morris water maze experiment conducted in mice revealed improved learning and memory function of KGAJOS at the dose levels of 1000 and 1500 mg/kg bw whereas 500 mg/kg bw was not found to be effective. Observed efficacy of KGAJOS confirmed the traditional claims and usage of this formulation in conditions associated with cognition and memory.

Keywords

• Unani
• Morris water maze
• Polyherbal formulation
• Cognition
• Memory
• Learning