Effect of Passiflora extract on passive avoidance Learning and Memory in male rats

Abstract

Background and Aim: Studies of memory impairment and memory loss associated with age, has led to the introduction of new therapies, including uses of medical herbs to improve memory. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of oral administration of Passiflora extract on passive avoidance Learning and Memory in male rats. Materials and Methods: In this experimental study, 40 male rats were divided into; control group, sham (solvent) and 3 Passiflora extract treated groups (50, 100 and 200 mg/ kg). The gavage was continued from the 1 week before the shock to 2 weeks afterwards. Learning and memory were evaluated using the passive avoidance test (shuttle box). Data were analyzed by SPSS software, using ANOVA and Tukey-post hoc test. Results: Oral administration of Passiflora extract in all 3 doses increased the latency of the entrance to the dark room, which was significant in the one week after the shock compared to control group(P <0.05). Conclusion: The Passiflora extract consumption improved dose dependently betterment learning and memory. So it seems that, it’s using be effective for cognitive impairment prevention and treatment.

Keywords

• Passiflora
• Learning
• Memory
• Rat