Evaluation of Memory and Cognition Enhancing Activity of <i>Glycerrhiza glabra</i> Linn. Formulation Along with Yoga in Teenage (13-16 years) Students

Abstract

Yashtimadhu (Glycyrrhiza glabra Linn.) is one of the important neuro-nutrient herbs (Medhya Rasayana) mentioned in Ayurveda classics. Also, its usefulness in memory and cognition has been shown in many studies. Yoga, a part of the rich Indian heritage has also shown promising results in the memory enhancement of children and adults. Thus, a study was planned to assess the efficacy of their combined schedule in teenage students. Glycyrrhiza glabra Linn. was converted into an herbal formulation ‘Yastimadhu Kalpa’ (YK) as per principles of Ayurveda pharmaceutics. The objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of YK and Yoga schedules on the memory and cognitive performance of teenage (13-16 years old) students. In this open-labeled, randomized, placebo-controlled study, 100 assenting healthy students between 13-16 years of age were enrolled and randomized into trial and control groups, after obtaining EC approval and parent consent. Those in the trial group received YK and Yoga, while control group participants received a placebo (Ragi malt) and Yoga. The YK and placebo were to be taken with cow milk in the morning. A 30-minute Yoga schedule was also taught to them. The duration of treatment was of 90 days. Effect on memory and cognition was assessed by using cognitive ability and mental ability tests devised by Jnana-Prabodhini’s Institute of Psychology, Pune. These assessments were done on randomization visits (Day 0) and end-of-study visits (Day 90). Appropriate statistical tests were applied to the data to obtain results. Both groups showed significant improvement in cognition and memory after 90 days of treatment duration. However, YK group showed more significant improvement in cognition of figural classes and cognition of figural system in cognitive ability and memory of figural transformations, the memory of symbolic transformations, total memory, and mental ability among memory test parameters when compared to the control group. The inclusion of a Yoga schedule in both groups was found to be effective in the improvement of memory and cognition. YK (formulation of Glycyrrhiza glabra Linn.) along with Yoga can be used in children to enhance their memory and cognition.