Neuroprotective Effect of Ashtanga Ghrita on Spatial Learning and Memory in Scopolamine-Induced Amnesia in Rat Model

Abstract

Introduction: Ashtanga Ghrita (AG), Medhya Rasayana (nervine rejuvenator), is used for the treatment of neurodegenerative disorders. The contents of AG specifically act on Medha (intellect), whereas the lipid part, Go Ghrita, serves as a medium for the transfer of active phytoconstituents. Treatment of cognitive disorders associated with Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is to date inadequate in the field of medical science. Nootropic agents such as piracetam are used to improve memory and cognition; however, due to higher side effects, their use has become substantially limited. Methods: AG was administered orally to rat at dose of 48 ml/kg. Piracetam (200 mg/kg of body weight [b.w.], i.p.) was used as a standard nootropic agent, whereas scopolamine (SC, 2 mg/kg, of b.w., i.p.) was used as an amnestic agent. The learning and memory activities of AG were investigated in Charles Foster rat for 21 days, and its effects on learning and memory were examined using Barnes Maze Model. Results: Administration of AG (48 g/kg of b.w., i.p.) significantly (P < 0.05, P < 0.01) decreased transfer latency on day 21 with respect to the disease control group (29.33 ± 15.2 and 54.50 ± 30.69). Rats receiving piracetam showed significant memory improvement compared to SC group (30 ± 5.96). The nootropic effect on rats receiving AG and piracetam individually was significantly comparable (29.33 ± 15.201 and 30 ± 5.96). Conclusion: AG exerts antiamnesic effect in SC-induced rats and can be used in the treatment of memory impairment (dementia) predominantly produced in neurocognitive disorders such as AD.

Keywords

• barnes maze model
• dementia
• goghrita
• medhya rasayana
• nootropics