EVALUATION OF NOOTROPIC ACTIVITY OF MORINGA OLIFERA PODS
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Keywords
Antioxidant, Morris Water Maze, acetylcholinesterase inhibition, nootropic, cognitive enhancement, and Moringa oleifera
Abstract
Background: Global health concerns include cognitive impairment, which is frequently brought on by aging and neurodegenerative illnesses like Alzheimer's. Alternative therapies that make use of natural substances that are neuroprotective and memory-enhancing are becoming more popular. Known for its phytochemicals and traditional medicinal uses, Moringa oleifera may be good for your brain. This study looks at the nootropic effects and mechanisms of Moringa oleifera fruit pod hydroalcoholic extract in Wistar albino rats.
Procedures: Hydroalcoholic solvents were used to extract powdered, shade-dried Moringa oleifera fruit pods. Following phytochemical screening, the extract included flavonoids, alkaloids, saponins, phenolics, and tannins. Rats in five groups (n=5) received oral administration of either Moringa oleifera extract at 50, 100, or 200 mg/kg for 16 days, piracetam (500 mg/kg, i.p.), or vehicle (control). Cognitive ability was tested using the Morris Water Maze (MWM) and Passive Avoidance. In brain tissues, acetylcholinesterase (AChE) activity and the oxidative stress markers catalase, SOD, and MDA were assessed.
Results: Similar to piracetam, the extract decreased MWM escape latency and enhanced probe trial retention, particularly at dosages of 100 and 200 mg/kg. Antioxidant activity was indicated by the treated groups' increased SOD and CAT activity and decreased MDA levels. Furthermore, there was a significant decrease in hippocampal AChE activity, suggesting improved cholinergic function.
Conclusion: The fruit pod extract of Moringa oleifera contains antioxidants and inhibits cholinesterase, which enhances cognition. Together, the phytochemicals seem to enhance and safeguard memory. Our research suggests that Moringa oleifera might be a natural nootropic, and it has been used traditionally to treat cognitive problems. To determine its effectiveness in disease models and pinpoint the active ingredients in question, more investigation is required.
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Ganta Radhika Reddy
Research scholar, Department of pharmacy, Shri Jagdishprasad Jhabarmal Tibrewal University, Vidyanagari, Jhunjhunu Rajasthan, India -33301
Rakesh Jat
Professor, Department of pharmacy, Shri Jagdishprasad Jhabarmal tibrewal university, Vidyanagari, Jhunjhunu Rajasthan, India -33301