Abstract
Introduction: Melissa officinalis (MO) or lemon balm is traditionally used as a sedative and anti-spasm herbal medicine. There is also evidence that this plant has effects on learning and memory. This study examined the effect of a hydro-alcoholic extract of MO on passive avoidance learning (PAL) and memory in male rats. Methods: A total of 40 adult male Wistar rats were randomly distributed into four groups (200 to 220 g; n = 10 per group); three dose groups (50, 100, and 200 mg/kg of the hydro-alcoholic extract of MO) and vehicle control (saline) group. Saline or doses of extract were administered daily for 14 days by oral gavage. The rats were trained to enter the shuttle box to record their behavior in the PAL task. A retrieval test was performed 24 hours following training. Results: A significant difference was seen in performance among MO groups and the control. MO administered animals had a decreased number of acquisition trials (P < 0.05). In the retention task, MO administered animals had an increased step-through latency (SLT) (P < 0.01), and a decreased latency in the dark compartment (P < 0.001) compared to the control group. Conclusion: The results of the study show that MO can improve learning and memory in the PAL task. Further investigation is needed to enhance our understanding of the neurobiological mechanisms of the MO extract and its effects on learning and memory.
Highlights
Melissa officinalis (MO) or lemon balm is traditionally used as a sedative and anti-spasm herbal medicine
Implication for health policy/practice/research/medical education: The results of this study revealed that Melissa officinalis can enhance learning and memory in the passive avoidance test
Traditional herbal medicine suggests the use of MO may improve memory and concentration [20]
Summary
Melissa officinalis (MO) or lemon balm is traditionally used as a sedative and anti-spasm herbal medicine. This study examined the effect of a hydro-alcoholic extract of MO on passive avoidance learning (PAL) and memory in male rats. Conclusion: The results of the study show that MO can improve learning and memory in the PAL task. Melissa officinalis (MO) or lemon balm is one of the most popular therapeutic plants [1] The origin of this plant is Europe, it is grown throughout the world [2]. The aqueous extract of MO is enriched in phenolic compounds: rosmarinic, Traditional herbal medicine suggests the use of MO may improve memory and concentration [20]. It is reportedly valuable in controlling AD and produces a particular impact on agitation in this patient population [2]
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