Study of pharmacological effect of ethanolic extract of Trikatu (EET) on learning and memory in rats.

Abstract

Abstract:

The current study was conducted to evaluate the effect of ethanolic extract of trikatu (EET) on learning and memory in rats. This effect was assessed using Elevated Plus maze, Y Maze and Novel Object Recognition. The phytochemical constituents present in ethanolic extract were also evaluated.

Three models each were used to ascertain the effects on learning and memory and two test groups, with a dose of 500mg/kg and 1000 mg/kg respectively were selected. Piracetam was used as a standard drug for learning and memory which was administered intraperitoneally.  However, only the group showing more significant effect was subjected to the remaining two tests, in both cases.

The ethanolic extract, at doses of 500 mg/kg and 1000 mg/kg, was administered to rats by oral route. Piracetam was used as a standard for evaluation of learning and memory. The test doses were administered continuously for a period of seven days. The animals were subjected to the above mentioned tests and the observations were recorded at different time intervals on the first, fourth and seventh day. The results were statistically analyzed using one way ANOVA by Dunnett’s test.

From the results it was concluded that EET at both doses, 500mg/kg and 1000mg/kg were found to have significant learning and memory enhancing activity. Further in vitro analysis is required to understand exact mechanism of improved learning and memory.

Key words: learning, memory, trikatu.