In vivo antioxidant activity of Mentha arvensis in rat brain
Journal name: World Journal of Pharmaceutical Research
Original article title: Evaluation of in vivo anti-oxidant activity of mentha arvensis linn in rat brain homogenates
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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Nazima Ameen and Sabeeha Shafi
World Journal of Pharmaceutical Research:
(An ISO 9001:2015 Certified International Journal)
Full text available for: Evaluation of in vivo anti-oxidant activity of mentha arvensis linn in rat brain homogenates
Source type: An International Peer Reviewed Journal for Pharmaceutical and Medical and Scientific Research
Doi: 10.20959/wjpr20179-9241
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Summary of article contents:
Introduction
The study conducted by Nazima Ameen and Sabeeha Shafi investigates the in vivo antioxidant activity of Mentha arvensis Linn., commonly known as Pudina, in rat brain homogenates. This plant, prevalent in Indian cuisine, has been attributed various pharmacological properties, including sedative-hypnotic, anti-inflammatory, and hepatoprotective effects. However, there has been limited research on its potential to enhance memory, which is particularly pertinent given the relationship with Alzheimer’s disease. The primary objective was to assess the antioxidant effects of the plant's aerial parts and their implications for memory enhancement.
Role of Oxidative Stress in Alzheimer’s Disease
Oxidative stress and the damage caused by free radicals are directly associated with the pathophysiology of Alzheimer’s disease. The imbalance between reactive oxygen species and antioxidants can lead to neurodegeneration. Notably, the damage caused includes advanced glycation end products and lipid peroxidation, leading to cognitive impairments. This oxidative damage has profound effects on memory and is often linked to conditions such as amnesia and dementia. The study emphasizes that maintaining an adequate antioxidant defense system is crucial for preventing neurodegenerative diseases, including Alzheimer’s.
Neuroprotective Effects of Mentha arvensis
The research outlined the administration of Mentha arvensis extracts (aqueous and 70% ethanolic) over a course of 14 days to rats, followed by the induction of memory impairment using Scopolamine hydrobromide. The extracts demonstrated a dose-dependent decrease in acetylcholinesterase activity, suggesting enhanced acetylcholine levels in the brain, which is beneficial for cognitive functions. The results indicate a potential neuroprotective role of Mentha arvensis against cognitive deficits, providing a promising avenue for the development of treatments targeting memory enhancement and Alzheimer’s disease.
Antioxidant Properties of Extracts
The study thoroughly evaluated various biochemical parameters associated with antioxidant activity. The results indicated that both extracts significantly influenced levels of reduced glutathione (GSH), malondialdehyde (MDA), glutathione peroxidase (GPx), superoxide dismutase (SOD), and catalase (CAT) in a dose-dependent manner. Specifically, the 70% ethanolic extract exhibited a more pronounced increase in antioxidant levels compared to the aqueous extract. These findings suggest that the ethanolic extract possesses superior antioxidant activity, attributed to the higher presence of flavonoids and phenolic compounds, which aid in neutralizing oxidative stress.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the research supports the therapeutic potential of Mentha arvensis Linn. as a beneficial agent for counteracting oxidative stress and enhancing memory functions. The findings highlight its possible neuroprotective effects against memory impairment induced by Scopolamine hydrobromide. The study opens avenues for further research into Mentha arvensis as a natural intervention for Alzheimer’s disease, emphasizing its role in improving cognitive health through its antioxidant capabilities. Hence, this plant may serve as a valuable source for developing effective treatments aimed at memory enhancement.
FAQ section (important questions/answers):
What is the main aim of the study on Mentha arvensis?
The study aimed to evaluate the in vivo anti-oxidant activity of Mentha arvensis in rat brain homogenates, specifically focusing on its potential memory enhancing effects related to Alzheimer's disease.
What pharmacological actions does Mentha arvensis exhibit?
Mentha arvensis exhibits various pharmacological actions, including sedative-hypnotic, anti-inflammatory, anti-ulcerogenic, antifungal, anti-helminthic, and hepatoprotective properties. However, its memory-enhancing activity is not widely documented.
How were the extracts of Mentha arvensis prepared in the study?
The study prepared two extracts of Mentha arvensis: an aqueous extract and a 70% ethanolic extract of the aerial parts, using standard maceration techniques.
What biochemical parameters were evaluated in the study's findings?
The study evaluated several biochemical parameters, including Acetylcholinesterase (AChE) activity, levels of Malondialdehyde (MDA), Reduced Glutathione (GSH), Glutathione Peroxidase (GPx), Superoxide Dismutase (SOD), and total protein levels.
What were the effects of the extracts on AChE activity?
Both aqueous and ethanolic extracts of Mentha arvensis showed dose-dependent decreases in AChE activity in rats, indicating a potential enhancement of memory by increasing acetylcholine levels.
What conclusion does the study draw regarding Mentha arvensis?
The study concludes that Mentha arvensis extracts demonstrate protective effects against memory impairment induced by Scopolamine Hydrobromide, suggesting potential usefulness as an anti-Alzheimer agent.
Glossary definitions and references:
Scientific and Ayurvedic Glossary list for “In vivo antioxidant activity of Mentha arvensis in rat brain”. 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) Activity:
Activity refers to the effects or actions of a substance, particularly in a biological context. In this study, it pertains to the in vivo antioxidant and memory-enhancing effects of Mentha arvensis extracts on rats, demonstrating its potential therapeutic role against oxidative stress and cognitive impairment.
2) Water:
Water is a crucial solvent in biological and chemical processes. In this study, it is used to prepare aqueous extracts of Mentha arvensis. Water serves as a medium for extracting phytochemical constituents and is essential in physiological processes including hydration and metabolic reactions in the brain.
3) Disease:
Disease signifies any abnormal condition affecting the body or mind, particularly those causing dysfunction. Alzheimer's is highlighted in the research as a neurodegenerative disease linked to oxidative stress. Studying Mentha arvensis aims to explore its potential benefits in mitigating symptoms associated with Alzheimer's disease.
4) Kashmir:
Kashmir is the geographical region in India where the plant Mentha arvensis was collected for the study. The specific environmental conditions of Kashmir may influence the phytochemical profile of the plant, potentially affecting its biological activities and therapeutic efficacy as researched in this study.
5) Study (Studying):
Study encompasses the systematic investigation of a particular subject. In this case, the study investigates the antioxidant and cognitive-enhancing effects of Mentha arvensis in an animal model. It involves various methodologies, including biochemical evaluations and behavioral tests to assess the plant’s therapeutic potential.
6) Calculation:
Calculation refers to the mathematical processes used in determining values and concentrations in experiments. In this study, calculations are used to quantify enzyme activities, protein levels, and phytochemical contents, enhancing understanding of the antidementia potential of Mentha arvensis through statistical and analytical methods.
7) Phytochemical:
Phytochemical pertains to the bioactive compounds present in plants. The study identifies various phytochemicals in Mentha arvensis, such as flavonoids and terpenes, which may contribute to its antioxidant and neuroprotective effects, thereby validating its traditional use in folk medicine for cognitive enhancement.
8) Srinagar:
Srinagar is the capital city of Jammu and Kashmir, and it serves as a location for the research study. The geographical and climatic aspects of Srinagar may affect the growth and phytochemical composition of Mentha arvensis, providing vital insights into the local flora's medicinal properties.
9) Science (Scientific):
Science is the systematic enterprise that builds and organizes knowledge through testable explanations and predictions. The study exemplifies scientific inquiry into natural products' therapeutic roles, focusing on evidence-based pharmacology and the biochemical mechanisms underlying Mentha arvensis's effects on cognitive function.
10) India:
India is the country where the study was conducted, and where Mentha arvensis is commonly found. The cultural significance of the herb in traditional Indian medicine and cuisines, coupled with the country's rich biodiversity, provides a compelling context for researching its pharmacological properties.
11) Learning:
Learning pertains to the acquisition of knowledge or skills through experience, study, or teaching. The study assesses how extracts from Mentha arvensis could enhance cognitive functions, potentially benefiting learning processes affected by disorders like Alzheimer’s, thereby contributing to educational and therapeutic practices.
12) Drug:
Drug denotes any substance used in the diagnosis, treatment, or prevention of disease. In this study, the extracts from Mentha arvensis are explored for their potential as natural drugs that could alleviate symptoms associated with Alzheimer’s disease, representing a shift towards herbal therapeutics.
13) Pharmacological:
Pharmacological refers to the study of drugs and their effects on biological systems. This research examines the pharmacological activities of Mentha arvensis, including its antioxidant and memory-enhancing effects, illustrating the importance of herbal medicine's role in modern pharmacotherapy and disease management.
14) Measurement:
Measurement involves the process of quantifying attributes, such as physical or biochemical parameters in an experimental context. In this study, measurements are critical for evaluating the effectiveness of Mentha arvensis extracts and their impact on various biological markers linked to cognitive function and oxidative stress.
15) Flavonoid:
Flavonoid refers to a class of plant secondary metabolites known for their antioxidant properties. In identifying phytochemical contents of Mentha arvensis, flavonoids are highlighted for their potential neuroprotective effects, linking dietary intake with cognitive health and suggesting a role in Alzheimer's disease management.
16) Animal:
Animal refers to the living organisms used in research to study biological processes. The study employs rats to evaluate the effects of Mentha arvensis on cognitive functions, emphasizing the importance of animal models in understanding drug actions and potential therapeutic applications in humans.
17) Table:
Table signifies a systematic arrangement of data or results for clarity and analysis. In this study, tables present treatment schedules, biochemical results, and other significant findings, allowing for straightforward comparison and thorough examination of the effects of Mentha arvensis extracts.
18) Performance:
Performance refers to the effectiveness or capability of a mechanism or entity to achieve intended outcomes. In this study, the performance of Mentha arvensis is evaluated based on its ability to enhance cognitive function and exert antioxidant effects, providing insights into its medicinal value.
19) Discussion:
Discussion is the analytical section where results are interpreted and contextualized. In this study, the discussion delves into the implications of findings related to Mentha arvensis’s effects on memory and oxidative stress, linking observed outcomes to existing literature and potential applications.
20) Substance:
Substance refers to any material with distinct properties. In this context, the substances include the phytochemical extracts of Mentha arvensis analyzed for their biochemical activities. Understanding these substances is crucial for determining their roles as potential therapeutic agents in combating memory impairment.
21) Language:
Language refers to the method of communication, which is vital in conveying scientific information. In this study, clear scientific language is used to describe methodologies, results, and interpretations, ensuring the findings are accessible to researchers, practitioners, and the wider community interested in herbal medicine.
22) Chauhan:
Chauhan is a surname mentioned in context with referenced literature or authors cited within the study. The involvement of researchers like Chauhan highlights the collaborative nature of scientific inquiry and the importance of prior studies in contributing to validation and understanding of current research.
23) Medium:
Medium refers to the physical environment or substance in which processes occur. In this study, various media such as water and ethanol are used for extracting the phytochemicals from Mentha arvensis. The choice of medium influences extraction efficiency and the resultant properties of herbal remedies.
24) Malik:
Malik is another surname linked to referenced scientific literature. Similar to other cited authors, Malik's work adds credibility to the study, situating the research within a broader context of herbal medicine studies and memory enhancement related to plant-derived compounds and their potential applications.
25) Blood:
Blood serves as a transport medium for nutrients and signals in biological systems. Although not directly studied, the overall context of blood's role in physiological processes highlights its importance in understanding how the extracts of Mentha arvensis could influence overall metabolic and neurological health.
26) Alam (Alaṁ):
Alam is a surname associated with researchers referenced in the study. Researchers like Alam contribute to providing foundational knowledge within the context, enriching the discourse around the effects of antioxidants and cognitive enhancement from natural sources like Mentha arvensis.
27) Sah:
Shah is also a surname of an author referenced in the research. The contributions of scholars named Shah underscore the collaborative research environment within pharmacological studies, pointing towards a collective effort to explore herbal remedies and their application in neuroprotective strategies.
28) Salt (Salty):
Salt often denotes sodium chloride, but in biological contexts, it can also refer to ionic compounds crucial for physiological functions. In this study, the significance of salt may emerge in buffer solutions used during biochemical assays, ensuring optimal conditions for evaluating antioxidant activities.