Memory Enhancing Activity of Dendrobium macraei Lindl. in Swiss Albino Mice

Background: Memory is not a single process, but rather a series of interactive processes beginning when we are exposed to new information, which is registered by the brain, encoded, and in the right conditions, stored for later retrieval. Short and long term memory loss may result from deteriorating cerebral mechanisms due to different causes having impact on the quality of life. Memory enhancers can improve thinking, memory, and alertness in people with Alzheimer’s disease or dementia that affect the mind or memory.

Objective: In the present study, an attempt has been made to highlight the importance of the plant Dendrobium macraei Lindl. (family- Orchidaceae) in the field of traditional medicines which is traditionally used as memory enhancer.

Methods: The present study comprises in vivo memory enhancing activity evaluation in mice using various memory models such as elevated plus maze model and Morris water maze model. Piracetam was used as standard drug. Effects of various extract viz. petroleum ether, chloroform, ethyl acetate, methanol and aqueous extract of D. macraei were evaluated for memory enhancing activity.

Results and Conclusion: Amongst all extracts tested, only ethyl acetate and methanol extract of D. macraei showed significant short term and long term memory enhancing activity using elevated plus maze model and Morris water maze model in mice respectively. Ethyl acetate extract (200 mg/kg, p.o.) showed marked significant (P<0.05) effect as compared to methanol extract (200 mg/kg, p.o.) in both the models. Therefore, it would be worthwhile to explore the potential of this plant in the management of dementia.