Nootropic activity evaluation of Vigna mungo extracts in rats
Journal name: World Journal of Pharmaceutical Research
Original article title: Evaluation of nootropic activity of different extracts of vigna mungo (linn) in rats
The WJPR includes peer-reviewed publications such as scientific research papers, reports, review articles, company news, thesis reports and case studies in areas of Biology, Pharmaceutical industries and Chemical technology while incorporating ancient fields of knowledge such combining Ayurveda with scientific data.
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Saleem Ahmed and Zeeshan Afsar
World Journal of Pharmaceutical Research:
(An ISO 9001:2015 Certified International Journal)
Full text available for: Evaluation of nootropic activity of different extracts of vigna mungo (linn) in rats
Source type: An International Peer Reviewed Journal for Pharmaceutical and Medical and Scientific Research
Doi: 10.20959/wjpr20166-6390
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Summary of article contents:
Introduction
The research article evaluates the nootropic activity of different extracts of Vigna mungo (commonly known as black gram) in rats. With a background in pharmacology and traditional medicine, the study seeks to address the going challenge of dementia treatments, as current pharmacological approaches have limitations. The authors, Saleem Ahmed and Zeeshan Afsar, conducted experiments involving acute oral toxicity studies and behavioral assessments in order to analyze the effects of ethanol and aqueous extracts on cognitive function, explicitly targeting memory enhancement.
Nootropic Activity and Memory Enhancement
The study found that both ethanol and aqueous extracts of Vigna mungo exhibited notable nootropic effects, particularly in overcoming amnesia induced by pharmacological agents such as Diazepam and Scopolamine. The extracts were administered at varying dosages (ranging from 100 to 400 mg/kg) to examine their impact on learning and memory. A significant reduction in transfer latency (TL)—a measure of the time taken by the subjects to recall learned tasks—was observed, showcasing the extracts' potential to improve cognitive function in the experimental models.
Phytochemical Investigation
Preliminary phytochemical analysis confirmed the presence of critical secondary metabolites in Vigna mungo, including flavonoids, tannins, alkaloids, and terpenoids. The identification of these compounds reinforces the rationale for this research as many of these phytochemicals are linked to neuroprotective and cognitive-enhancing properties. This evidence adds credibility to the hypothesis that Vigna mungo could serve as a natural remedy for cognitive impairments.
Toxicity Assessment
The acute oral toxicity studies conducted based on OECD guidelines aimed to ensure the safety of the extracts for further testing. The investigations involved administering high doses to assess the risk of toxicity and glean a clearer understanding of the suitable dosages for inducing therapeutic effects without adverse reactions. The research suggests that advisable doses enable the attainment of cognitive benefits while maintaining safety margins for the subjects.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the study substantiates the potential of Vigna mungo extracts as nootropic agents capable of enhancing memory and learning behavior in rats. The findings establish a foundation for future research into natural alternatives for cognitive enhancement and the medicinal properties of Vigna mungo, which could provide insights into developing effective treatments for dementia and related cognitive disorders. The investigations promise a positive avenue for exploring plant-based solutions in contemporary pharmacology.
FAQ section (important questions/answers):
What is the main focus of the study on Vigna mungo?
The study evaluates the nootropic activity of ethanol and aqueous extracts of Vigna mungo seeds in rats, specifically their effects on learning and memory.
How were the effects of Vigna mungo extracts tested?
Effects were tested using scopolamine and diazepam-induced amnesia models, alongside an elevated plus maze for assessing learning and memory.
What dosages were used for Vigna mungo extracts in the study?
The extracts were administered in doses of 100 mg/kg, 200 mg/kg, and 400 mg/kg to evaluate their impact on memory and learning.
What were the key findings regarding the extracts' effectiveness?
Both ethanol and aqueous extracts significantly reduced transfer latency, indicating improved memory and learning behavior in the test subjects.
What preliminary tests were conducted on Vigna mungo extracts?
Preliminary phytochemical tests revealed the presence of secondary metabolites like flavonoids, alkaloids, and tannins in the extracts.
What are the implications of this research on dementia treatment?
The findings suggest that Vigna mungo extracts may serve as potential nootropic agents, offering an alternative approach for enhancing memory and managing dementia.
Glossary definitions and references:
Scientific and Ayurvedic Glossary list for “Nootropic activity evaluation of Vigna mungo extracts in rats”. This list explains important keywords that occur in this article and links it to the glossary for a better understanding of that concept in the context of Ayurveda and other topics.
1) Vigna mungo:
Vigna mungo, also known as black gram, is an important pulse crop native to India, rich in nutrients and flavonoids. This plant's extracts were studied for their nootropic activity, particularly in enhancing learning and memory, making it relevant in pharmacological research concerning cognitive functions and mental health.
2) Animal:
In the context of the study, 'animal' refers to the use of laboratory rats, specifically male albino Wistar rats, as experimental subjects for assessing the nootropic effects of Vigna mungo. The ethical treatment and welfare of animals in research conditions are paramount and guided by established protocols and regulations.
3) Study (Studying):
The term 'study' refers to the systematic investigation carried out to evaluate the nootropic activity of Vigna mungo extracts in laboratory settings. It encompasses the methodology, observations, and analyses conducted to draw conclusions about the effects of the plant extracts on learning and memory in experimental animals.
4) Learning:
Learning pertains to the cognitive process involved in acquiring new knowledge, skills, and behaviors. In this research, learning is evaluated through the performance of rats in behavioral tests, reflecting how the administration of Vigna mungo extracts may enhance memory retention and cognitive functions in a controlled environment.
5) Disease:
Disease in this context refers to cognitive impairments such as dementia and amnesia, which underscore the necessity for effective nootropic agents. The study investigates the potential of Vigna mungo extracts to combat chemically induced memory deficits, thereby contributing to the understanding of therapeutic options for cognitive disorders.
6) Activity:
Activity reflects the efficacy of Vigna mungo extracts in promoting nootropic effects observed during the experiments. The ability of these extracts to reverse impairments induced by drugs like diazepam and scopolamine is measured through behavioral assessments, demonstrating their potential as cognitive enhancers.
7) Drug:
In this research, 'drug' relates to the substances tested for their impact on memory and cognition, specifically focusing on Vigna mungo extracts as possible nootropic agents. Different synthetic drugs, like piracetam, are used for comparison, establishing a benchmark for the efficacy of plant extracts in cognitive enhancement.
8) Toxicity:
Toxicity pertains to the adverse effects and safety profiles of the Vigna mungo extracts. Acute oral toxicity studies were conducted according to OECD guidelines to ensure that the extracts do not produce harmful effects on the test animals, thus establishing their potential for safe usage in cognitive enhancement applications.
9) Mysore:
Mysore is a city in India where the research was conducted, specifically at Farooqia College of Pharmacy. The location is relevant as it reflects the region's agricultural background and cultural practices, leading to the utilization of local plant species like Vigna mungo for medicinal studies.
10) Phytochemical:
Phytochemical refers to the chemical compounds found in plants, particularly those beneficial for health. The study focuses on identifying various phytochemicals in Vigna mungo extracts, such as flavonoids, which are believed to contribute to its nootropic effects, enhancing cognitive functions in the test subjects.
11) Table:
A table in this context presents organized data from the study, summarizing the effects of Vigna mungo extracts on transfer latency across different experimental groups. It facilitates clear comparisons between treatment effects and supports the statistical analysis conducted during the research.
12) Science (Scientific):
Scientific denotes the rigorous, systematic approach applied in this study to investigate the nootropic potential of Vigna mungo. Utilizing established methodologies and statistical analyses ensures the reliability and validity of the findings, contributing to the broader field of pharmaceutical and cognitive research.
13) Flavonoid:
Flavonoid is a type of phytochemical prevalent in various plants, including Vigna mungo. These compounds are recognized for their antioxidant and neuroprotective properties, which may play a crucial role in enhancing cognitive functions and mitigating memory impairments, making them significant in the study's context.
14) Medicine:
Medicine in this context involves the application of studied extracts of Vigna mungo for therapeutic purposes. The research aims to contribute to medicinal knowledge addressing cognitive disorders, opening potential avenues for integrating traditional plant-based remedies into modern healthcare practices.
15) Language:
Language relates to the cognitive processes involved in communication and information processing, aspects potentially affected by the nootropic properties of Vigna mungo extracts. Understanding how cognitive enhancement affects language skills may provide insights into broader psychological and neurological functions.
16) Medium:
Medium refers to the method or vehicle used for delivering the nootropic extracts to the test subjects in this study. The aqueous and ethanol extracts serve as mediums for administering the phytochemical constituents of Vigna mungo to assess their cognitive enhancing properties.
17) India:
India is the geographical origin of Vigna mungo and plays a crucial role in the study, as local agricultural practices have traditionally utilized this pulse for various medicinal purposes. Additionally, the socio-cultural context of herbal medicine in India supports the exploration of plant-based nootropic agents.
18) Field:
Field refers to the area of study or research focus, specifically emphasizing pharmacology and cognitive neuroscience. The research falls within these fields, exploring the effects of natural compounds on cognitive functions, thus contributing valuable knowledge to the respective disciplines.
19) Male:
Male specifies the gender of the albino Wistar rats used in the experiment. Gender may influence behavioral outcomes in cognitive studies, and using a single gender minimizes variability due to hormonal differences, providing clearer insights into the effects of Vigna mungo extracts.
20) Mental disorder:
Mental disorder encompasses various conditions that impact cognitive functions, such as memory and learning. The study aims to investigate the potential of Vigna mungo extracts to alleviate symptoms of disorders like dementia and amnesia, demonstrating the relevance of cognitive enhancement in mental health treatment.
21) Pharmacology:
Pharmacology is the branch of medicine concerned with the study of drug action and interactions. The research aligns with pharmacological principles, focusing on the memory-enhancing activities of Vigna mungo extracts and their potential therapeutic applications in cognitive impairment treatments.
22) Observation:
Observation refers to the careful monitoring and recording of behavioral changes in the test subjects as they are exposed to the Vigna mungo extracts. This component is crucial for interpreting the results, as it allows researchers to draw conclusions about the nootropic efficacy based on empirical evidence.
23) Discussion:
Discussion involves the interpretation of study results and their implications for understanding nootropic activities of Vigna mungo. Here, researchers correlate findings with existing literature, propose mechanisms of action, and suggest future directions for research and potential applications in pharmacotherapy.
24) Leucoderma:
Leucoderma is a skin condition characterized by loss of pigmentation, mentioned as one of the traditional medicinal uses of Vigna mungo. Understanding its applications in treating such ailments can give insights into the multidisciplinary relevance of the plant beyond cognitive functions.
25) Affection:
Affection, within this context, refers to any impact or benefit Vigna mungo has on health conditions, including cognitive impairments or disorders. The term highlights the potential therapeutic uses of extracts in improving various health aspects pertaining to memory and learning.
26) Training:
Training in the study refers to the process of acclimatizing animals to the experimental setup, which is necessary to ensure reliable results. Proper training protocols allow rats to learn tasks effectively, influencing the outcomes of assessments related to learning and memory.
27) Relative:
Relative denotes the considerations made in relation to control groups during the study. It emphasizes the importance of comparing the effects of Vigna mungo extracts with untreated and standard-treated groups to determine the efficacy of the plant in enhancing cognitive performance.
28) Debility:
Debility refers to the weakness or impaired functioning, particularly in cognitive terms, that Vigna mungo extracts aim to address. The study seeks to explore how the plant's compounds can potentially restore cognitive strength and combat debility related to mental disorders.
29) Species:
Species is a biological classification that categorizes Vigna mungo, marking its significance in the study of pharmacognosy and its potential therapeutic properties. Researching different plant species can unearth varied chemical profiles useful for developing new medicinal products for cognitive enhancement.
30) Anxiety:
Anxiety relates to emotional disturbances that may hinder cognitive functions. The study evaluates if Vigna mungo extracts can alleviate anxiety-induced cognitive impairments, thus informing broader therapeutic approaches for mental health conditions linked to anxiety and memory issues.
31) Powder:
Powder indicates the state of Vigna mungo seeds after processing for extraction. The powdered form allows for efficient extraction of bioactive compounds, making it suitable for preparing aqueous and ethanol extracts used in the study's experimentation and analysis.
32) Water:
Water refers to the solvent used to create the aqueous extract of Vigna mungo. Solvents play a critical role in the extraction of phytochemicals, and water is essential for preparing solutions that are bioavailable and can be easily administered to test subjects.
33) Sugar:
Sugar, while not directly related to the core study focus, signifies biochemical components likely monitored within blood parameters of the animals. Keeping track of blood sugar levels during experiments ensures a comprehensive understanding of physiological effects resulting from extracts consumed.
34) Pulse:
Pulse refers to legumes like Vigna mungo that are vital for nutrition, particularly in vegetarian diets. Understanding its classification as a pulse crop relates to its nutritional profile, supporting the rationale for its examination in cognitive enhancement studies based on traditional uses.
35) Blood:
Blood represents a biological fluid critical for nutrient and oxygen transport. In the study, monitoring blood parameters helps assess any metabolic changes occurring due to Vigna mungo extract administration, ensuring that the observed cognitive enhancements are not confounded by systemic physiological alterations.
36) Diet:
Diet in relation to the study encompasses the nutritional regimen of the test animals ensuring that they maintain regular feeding patterns during experiments. A controlled diet helps mitigate variables that could affect the outcomes of behavioral assessments and test results.
37) Cage:
Cage refers to the housing of the experimental animals under controlled environmental conditions. It is essential for ensuring the health and welfare of the subjects, impacting their behavior and cognitive performance during the observational study period.
38) Crop:
Crop indicates Vigna mungo's agricultural significance as a widely cultivated pulse. The relevance of its cultivation underlines the potential benefits of tapping local agricultural products for research and development in pharmaceuticals focusing on cognitive enhancement.
39) Rich (Rch):
Rich describes the nutrient-dense profile of Vigna mungo, emphasizing the presence of health-promoting compounds such as flavonoids. Acknowledging its richness in essential phytochemicals justifies its selection for studying cognitive enhancement properties, aligning with historical uses in traditional medicine.
40) Pain:
Pain refers to the physical or psychological discomfort that Vigna mungo may address through its medicinal properties. While the study primarily focuses on cognitive enhancements, understanding the broader range of conditions and symptoms the plant might help alleviate adds depth to its therapeutic potential.
41) Post:
Post indicates the timing of observations made after experimental treatments, such as the evaluation of transfer latency after administering extracts. Observations made post-treatment are crucial for determining the duration and efficacy of the nootropic effects, offering insights into the time-dependent nature of cognitive enhancement.
Other Science Concepts:
Discover the significance of concepts within the article: ‘Nootropic activity evaluation of Vigna mungo extracts in rats’. Further sources in the context of Science might help you critically compare this page with similair documents:
Vigna mungo, Molecular biology, Cognitive domain, Phytochemical screening, Nootropic activity, Elevated Plus Maze, Transfer latency, Aqueous extract, Ethanol extract, Diazepam-induced amnesia, Scopolamine-induced amnesia, Acute oral toxicity study.