Effects of Ginsomin<sup>®</sup> on Selected Behaviours in Mice

Abstract

Objective: To study the effects of ginsomin® on behaviours of healthy mice using the open-field, Y-maze, eight-arm radial maze and the elevated-plus maze. Method: Groups of mice were administered vehicle (distilled water), scopolamine (2 mg/kg), diazepam (2 mg/kg), or one of two doses of ginsomin (0.5 and 1.0 mg/kg) for 21 days. Behavioural assessments were carried out after the first and final dose of treatment. Result: Repeated administration of ginsomin was associated with a decrease in weight gain, in comparison to vehicle. In the elevated plus maze (EPM), administration of ginsomin resulted in an increase in time spent in the open arms and number of open arm visits in comparison to vehicle, but not diazepam control. A dose-related increase in open-field horizontal locomotion and rearing behaviours; and improvements in Y-maze and radial arm maze spatial working-memory performances were also observed. However, self-grooming behaviours were significantly reduced after repeated administration. Conclusion: Ginsomin administration in healthy mice is associated with significant behavioural changes; hence, our findings support its perception as a ginseng-containing mixture with profound central nervous system effects.