Memory Enhancing Activity of Saraswatarishta in Mice

Abstract

Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder characterized by a gradual decline in memory. Incidence of Alzheimer's disease increases with age. The disease incidence is 1% in 60 year olds & increases to 30 % at 85 years age. Hence this disease is already having enormous magnitude in today's graying world. Current treatment of Alzheimer’s disease includes- cholinesterase inhibitors& N-methyl- D-aspartate antagonists, but the benefit observed is modest. In traditional medicine Saraswatarishta is being used as memory enhancer for centuries. Brahmi, one of its major ingredients, is also being used to treat Alzheimer’s. So present study was undertaken for authentication of traditional claims of Saraswatarishta as a memory-enhancing agent. Five groups of mice (6 mice in each) were used for this study. Control group (group I) received distilled water, Group II received Saraswatarishta (2.5ml/kg) single dose and Group III received Saraswatarishta (2.5ml/kg) for 2wks. Group IV was given Diazepam (1mg/kg) to produce amnesia. For Group V, Saraswatarishta (2.5ml/kg) was given for 2wks followed by Diazepam (1mg/kg). Effect of Saraswatarishta on learning and memory of mice was studied using elevated plus maze model (EPM). Reduction in TL (Transfer Latency) indicates improvement in learning or memory and prolongation indicates impairment. Diazepam induced prolongation of TL is an accepted model of dementia. In our study, 2 weeks daily treatment of Saraswatarishta completely prevented impairment of learning and memory by Diazepam, corroborating the Ayurvdic use of Saraswatarishta and Brahmi, its major ingredient in the management of dementia. Saraswatarishta can be used as preventive measure to overcome demensia in Alzheimer’s disease.