133-136Dementia is one of the age related mental
problems and a characteristic symptom of various neurodegenerative disorders
including Alzheimer’s disease. Certain drugs like diazepam, barbiturates and
alcohol disrupt learning and memory in animals and man. However, a new class of
drugs known as nootropic agents is now used in situations where there is
organic disorder in learning abilities. The present work was undertaken to
assess the potential of O. sanctum
extract as a nootropic and anti-amnesic agent in mice. Aqueous extract of dried
whole plant of O. sanctum ameliorated
the amnesic effect of scopolamine (0.4 mg/kg), diazepam (1 mg/kg) and aging
induced memory deficits in mice. Elevated plus maze and passive avoidance
paradigm served as the exteroceptive behavioral models. O. sanctum extract decreased transfer latency and increased step
down latency, when compared to control (piracetam treated), scopolamine and
aged groups of mice significantly. O.
sanctum preparations could of beneficial in the treatment of cognitive
disorders such as dementia and Alzheimer’s disease