No full-text available
To read the full-text of this research,
you can request a copy directly from the authors.
Effect of Mandookaparni (Centella asiatica) on the general mental ability (Medhya) of mentally retarded children
Abstract
The results of a double blind trial of Centella asiatica indicated that there was a significant increase in the general mental ability of mentally retarded children after 3 months and 6 months of drug administration. In the behavioural area, significant improvement was found in the overall general adjustment and attention & concentration after 6 months.
... Centella asiatica has also been evaluated for its effects on human cognition. A doubleblind trial developed more than four decades ago [124] showed significant increases in the general mental ability, attention and concentration of mentally retarded children treated with Centella asiatica (0.5 g/day during 6 months). Studies also reported improvements in cognitive function after Centella asiatica treatment in adult humans after stroke [125], as well as in healthy middle aged [126] and elderly individuals [127][128][129]. ...
... Increase in the general mental ability, attention and concentration of mentally retarded children. Improvement in adult humans after stroke, in healthy middle age and elderly individuals [124][125][126][127][128][129]. ClinicalTrials.gov, ...
... In this context, it is important to note the clear distinction between cognitive enhancers and disease modifying strategies [155]. Particularly in the clinical studies involving patients (MS, mental retardation, Down's syndrome) [124,141,144] or elderly subjects [116,119,122,[126][127][128][129]131,132,138], it is likely that, due to the antioxidant and antiinflammatory effects resulting from NRF2-related downstream proteins, the upregulation of this pathway prevented cognitive decline directly by preventing neurodegeneration, thus displaying an indirect effect in promoting cognition. ...
Nuclear factor (erythroid-derived 2)-like 2 (NRF2) is a redox-sensitive transcription factor that binds to the antioxidant response element consensus sequence, decreasing reactive oxygen species and regulating the transcription of a wide array of genes, including antioxidant and detoxifying enzymes, regulating genes involved in mitochondrial function and biogenesis. Moreover, NRF2 has been shown to directly regulate the expression of anti-inflammatory mediators reducing the expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines. In recent years, attention has turned to the role NRF2 plays in the brain in different diseases such Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson’s disease, Huntington’s disease and others. This review focused on the evidence, derived in vitro, in vivo and from clinical trials, supporting a role for NRF2 activation in maintaining and improving cognitive function and how its activation can be used to elicit neuroprotection and lead to cognitive enhancement. The review also brings a critical discussion concerning the possible prophylactic and/or therapeutic use of NRF2 activators in treating cognitive impairment-related conditions.
... [17][18][19][20][21][22] Mandukaparni (C. asiatica (L.) Urb.) C. asiatica aqueous extract has shown significant effect on enhancing memory and learning, [23,24] anti-depressant activity, [25] and also reduces serum corticosterone level. [26] Brahmoside and brahminoside constituents of C. asiatica have shown sedative effect and the anxiolytic activity due to binding to cholecystokinin receptors. ...
... Centella asiatica (L.) Urb. Aqueous extract [23][24][25][26] Enhances memory and learning, [23,24] antidepressant activity, [25] and reduces serum corticosterone level [26] Brahmoside and Brahminoside [27] Sedative effect and anxiolytic activity [27] Hydroalcoholic extract of C. asiatica leaves [28] Protective action against increase in intracranial electric stimulation (ICES) and chemo-convulsions [28] Asiatic acid derivatives [31] Neuroprotective effects [31] ...
... Centella asiatica (L.) Urb. Aqueous extract [23][24][25][26] Enhances memory and learning, [23,24] antidepressant activity, [25] and reduces serum corticosterone level [26] Brahmoside and Brahminoside [27] Sedative effect and anxiolytic activity [27] Hydroalcoholic extract of C. asiatica leaves [28] Protective action against increase in intracranial electric stimulation (ICES) and chemo-convulsions [28] Asiatic acid derivatives [31] Neuroprotective effects [31] ...
BACKGROUND
Ayurveda Samhita's has documented nootropic drugs, which may play crucial role in brain development during infancy and early childhood. Any deviation in brain development can affect the overall personality and result in low IQ, poor cognitive function, defective learning, impairment in memory, language, speech, and social communication in later life of child. As a result, knowledge of nootropic medicines is critical for dealing with memory-related symptoms in children.
Objective
The present review is to explore the therapeutic domain of Medhya Rasayana (nootropic drugs) mentioned by Acharya Kashyapa in the light of recently reported contemporary evidence.
Materials and Methods
Kashyapa Samhita was reviewed in terms of description of Medhya Rasayana or Medhya drugs including single and compound drugs. The electronic database such as PubMed and Google Scholar were searched for relevant literature published from time of their inception to 2020, with results restricted to report in English language and information was extracted from different published articles as per the search criteria.
Results
Important nootropic drugs mentioned by Acharya Kashyapa are Brahmi ( Bacopa monnieri (L.) Wettst.), Mandukaparni ( Centella asiatica (L.) Urb.), Triphala ( Phyllanthus emblica L ., Terminalia bellirica (Gaertn.) Roxb., Terminalia chebula Retz.), Chitraka ( Plumbago zeylanica L.), Vacha ( Acorus calamus L.), Trivrut ( Operculina turpethum (L.) Silva Manso), Shatavari ( Asparagus racemosus Willd.), Shatapushpa ( Anethum graveolens L.), Nagabala ( Grewia hirsuta Vahl.) and Danti ( Baliospermum montanum (Willd.) Müll.Arg.), Brahmi Ghrita, Kalyanaka Ghrita , and Pancha-Gavya Ghrita , etc. These herbs/drugs have a positive effect on memory; improve the intellect, learning, memory, language, and speech of a child. Moreover, these drugs have shown potential therapeutic actions like cognitive function, antiepileptic effect, antianxiety effect, sedative, tranquilizer, antidepressant, antioxidant, antistress, and adaptogenic effect. Specific medicinal herbs like Triphala , O. turpethum , and P. zeylanica under nootropic drugs are found to act through “gut-brain” axis.
Conclusion
Nootropic drugs mentioned in Kashyapa Samhita is very unique contribution and in recent times these drugs are scientifically validated in pre-clinical and clinical trials, which plays an important role for brain development in pediatric age group. These drugs are clinically tested for promoting mental health since ancient times. Moreover, most of the pre-clinical/clinical studies have proved that nootropic herbs/drugs are useful in many diseases like epilepsy, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, intellectual disability, autism spectrum disorders, speech disorders, etc. Clinical studies may be planned on pediatric psychological/mental health issues taking leads from the available anecdotal evidence as well as pre-clinical evidence to generate robust empirical evidence which can be used to promote better physical and mental health in a child.
CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE
Nootropic herbs/drugs are unique drugs mentioned by Kashyapa Samhita , which are having evidence for providing better mental health as well as in the treatment of many neurological disorders.
... The results indicated that there is an improvement in the intelligence quotient (IQ) level of the children treated with Mandukparni as compared with placebo, and the data were found to be significant at the end of 3 months; however, it was observed that there was no significant difference in improvement in the IQ level after 3 and 6 months. 23 108 patients who completed the treatment for a period of 2 months were taken for final assessment. The route of administration was oral, 2 gm four times a day, i.e., Tagar, Brahmyadi Yoga, placebo and 50 mg chlorpromazine four times a day dose of the medicine given for the first month. ...
... 28,29 The aqueous extracts of C. asiatica were evaluated in intracerebroventricular streptozotocin-induced cognitive impairment and oxidative stress in rats, and it was found that the plant possessed cognitive-enhancing effect and also an involvement of antioxidant mechanism. 30 The use of this plant is also found clinically for the anxiety neurosis and for mentally retarded children 23 as well and showed improvement in the short-term memory and learning abilities in both animal models and humans. 23,31 The plant is also utilized in the traditional eastern cultures as sedative, which was assumed due to its phytoconstituents brahmoside and brahminoside. ...
... 30 The use of this plant is also found clinically for the anxiety neurosis and for mentally retarded children 23 as well and showed improvement in the short-term memory and learning abilities in both animal models and humans. 23,31 The plant is also utilized in the traditional eastern cultures as sedative, which was assumed due to its phytoconstituents brahmoside and brahminoside. The plant also possesses anxiolytic properties which are associated due to binding to cholecystokinin receptors, which are G protein coupled-type receptors and bind the peptide hormones cholecystokinin or gastrin and were considered to play a significant role in modulation of anxiety, memory, and hunger and nociception in animals and humans. ...
Aim: This study focuses on the documentation and critical evaluation of the presence of botanical nootropics in Ayurveda based on the available classical literature in Ayurveda. The study also entails the terminology used for different memory and cognitive functions in the classical texts of Ayurveda.
Background: The process of memory (smriti) and neurocognitive functions (medha) has been well documented by Indians since ancient times, and comprehensive portrayal concerning different diseases interfering neurocognitive functions and their management are embodied in ancient medical literatures. A detailed account of medicinal plants for enhancement of neurocognitive functions, such as medhya rasayanas, smritikara, buddhivivardhaka, buddhimatiprada drugs, etc. (nootropics and mental health promoters) can be traced from over nine codified texts of Ayurveda.
Review results: Exposition of the uncharted knowledge about plant drugs ascribed with nootropic effect is scattered elsewhere in archaic medical literatures and is pivotal for further research and drug development. For rational, evidence-based use and development of safe, effective, and acceptable pharmacological dosage forms, it is vital to comprehend the mode of action of these plant drugs based on their traditional use, principles mentioned in Ayurveda texts, and also applying modern pharmacological thoughts.
Conclusion: Documentation and critical evaluation of the presence of botanical nootropics in Ayurveda based on the available classical literature in Ayurveda was done. Mental health is one among the important health concerns in the emerging scenario, owing to the paradigm shift of the disease burden from communicable disease to noncommunicable disease in developed and developing countries. The potential leads from Ayurveda texts may be taken forward for further development of safe, effective, and user-friendly dosage forms through systematic preclinical and clinical studies. Further, the diverse terminology was found in different Ayurvedic text.
Keywords: Ayurveda, Medicinal plants, Memory enhancement, Neurocognitive improvement, Nootropics.
... Most of its medicinal values are attributed to the presence of several triterpenes, namely asiatic acid, madecassic acid, asiaticoside, and madecassoside [66,67]. The constituents of C. asiatica, specifically asiaticoside, depict the great pharmacological effects as antibacterial [68], antioxidant [69,70], anti-ulcerative [71], antiinflammatory [72], anxiolytic [73], anti-hepatofibrotic [74], and antidiarrheal agents, as well as for the treatment of asthma, tuberculosis, various skin lesions, wound healing [75,76], atherosclerosis, fungicidal and mental disorders [77], and ageing [48][49][50]. Moreover, asiaticoside 1 g/kg body weight The antitumor drugs used previously are not only harmful to tumor cells but also the normal cells, and this restricts their clinical use [61]. ...
... Most of its medicinal values are attributed to the presence of several triterpenes, namely asiatic acid, madecassic acid, asiaticoside, and madecassoside [66,67]. The constituents of C. asiatica, specifically asiaticoside, depict the great pharmacological effects as antibacterial [68], antioxidant [69,70], anti-ulcerative [71], anti-inflammatory [72], anxiolytic [73], anti-hepatofibrotic [74], and antidiarrheal agents, as well as for the treatment of asthma, tuberculosis, various skin lesions, wound healing [75,76], atherosclerosis, fungicidal and mental disorders [77], and ageing [48][49][50]. Moreover, asiaticoside 1 g/kg body weight has not shown to be harmful, and patients have shown good tolerance to C. asiatica extracts or asiaticoside [78]. ...
Natural products remain a popular alternative treatment for many ailments in various countries. This study aimed to screen for potential mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) inhibitors from Malaysian natural substance, using the Natural Product Discovery database, and to determine the IC50 of the selected mTOR inhibitors against UMB1949 cell line. The crystallographic structure of the molecular target (mTOR) was obtained from Protein Data Bank, with Protein Data Bank (PDB) ID: 4DRI. Everolimus, an mTOR inhibitor, was used as a standard compound for the comparative analysis. Computational docking approach was performed, using AutoDock Vina (screening) and AutoDock 4.2.6 (analysis). Based on our analysis, asiaticoside and its derivative, asiatic acid, both from Centella asiatica, revealed optimum-binding affinities with mTOR that were comparable to our standard compound. The effect of asiaticoside and asiatic acid on mTOR inhibition was validated with UMB1949 cell line, and their IC50 values were 300 and 60 µM, respectively, compared to everolimus (29.5 µM). Interestingly, this is the first study of asiaticoside and asiatic acid against tuberous sclerosis complex (TSC) disease model by targeting mTOR. These results, coupled with our in silico findings, should prompt further studies, to clarify the mode of action, safety, and efficacy of these compounds as mTOR inhibitors.
... Administration of this herb to juvenile and young adult mice or rats was found to enhance their learning and memory performances [26,27]. Meanwhile, in humans, C. asiatica has been reported to improve mental ability of the mentally retarded children [28] and could selectively decrease the amyloid-levels in the hippocampus [29]. ...
... Administration of this herb during postnatal period in mice has been shown to enhance learning and memory [26]. Studies in humans have indicated that C. asiatica could improve memory in mentally retarded children [28]. In addition, C. asiatica combined with other herbal extracts has been shown to improve memory in patients with Alzheimer's disease [42]. ...
... for centuries [6]. Centella asiatica has been reported to promote wound healing [7][8][9][10], enhance the memory [11], decrease the inflammation [12, 13], and improve cognitive performance [13][14][15][16] . Centella asiatica contains many constituents , such as asiatic acid, madecassic acid (6-hydroxy- asiatic acid), asiaticoside, madecassoside, betulinic acid, thankunic acid, and isothankunic acid [17]. ...
... for centuries [6]. Centella asiatica has been reported to promote wound healing [7][8][9][10], enhance the memory [11], decrease the inflammation [12, 13], and improve cognitive performance [13][14][15][16] . Centella asiatica contains many constituents , such as asiatic acid, madecassic acid (6-hydroxy- asiatic acid), asiaticoside, madecassoside, betulinic acid, thankunic acid, and isothankunic acid [17]. ...
Centella asiatica
, commonly known as Gotu kola, has been widely used as a traditional herb for decades. Yet, the study on which compounds or compound combinations actually lead to its brain benefits remains scarce. To study the neuroprotection effects of
Centella asiatica
, neuronal differentiation of PC12 cells was applied. In our pilot study, we isolated 45
Centella asiatica
fractions and tested their abilities for inducing neuronal differentiation on PC12 cells. The most effective fraction showed robust induction in neurite outgrowth and neurofilament expression. LC-MS fingerprint analysis of this fraction revealed asiatic acid and madecassic acid as the dominant components. A further investigation on the pure combination of these two compounds indicated that the combination of these two compounds extensively promoted nerve differentiation
in vitro
. Application of PD98059, a protein MEK inhibitor, attenuated combination-induced neurofilament expression, indicating the combination-induced nerve differentiation through activation of MEK signaling pathway. Our results support the use of combination of asiatic acid and madecassic acid as an effective mean to intervene neurodegenerative diseases in which neurotrophin deficiency is involved.
... It is traditionally used to support brain function and memory, and ongoing research is exploring its potential in neurodegenerative disorders. [19,34,18,25] . ...
... Centella asiatica tablets administered orally to mentally retarded children showed significant increase in general ability and behaviour patterns [35,36,37]. ...
... The neurotropic and neuroprotective effects of CA have been widely studied and documented (14,19). The vast majority of studies in the literature report data from preclinical models; however several small clinical studies also report CA's ability to improve memory, mood, or brain function in different population groups, including children (20), young adults (21,22), middle-aged adults (23), or older adults (24)(25)(26)(27)(28). A meta-analysis failed to find a positive effect of CA on cognition (29); but as noted previously, the trials reviewed varied widely in the CA product tested, the level of product details provided, the subject population, the end points examined, and the quality of the methodology (19,30) making direct comparisons between studies difficult. ...
Botanical products are frequently sold as dietary supplements and their use by the public is increasing in popularity. However, scientific evaluation of their medicinal benefits presents unique challenges due to their chemical complexity, inherent variability, and the involvement of multiple active components and biological targets. Translation away from preclinical models, and developing an optimized, reproducible botanical product for use in clinical trials, presents particular challenges for phytotherapeutic agents compared to single chemical entities. Common deficiencies noted in clinical trials of botanical products include limited characterization of the product tested, inadequate placebo control, and lack of rationale for the type of product tested, dose used, outcome measures or even the study population. Our group has focused on the botanical Centella asiatica due to its reputation for enhancing cognition in Eastern traditional medicine systems. Our preclinical studies on a Centella asiatica water extract (CAW) and its bioactive components strongly support its potential as a phytotherapeutic agent for cognitive decline in aging and Alzheimer's disease through influences on antioxidant response, mitochondrial activity, and synaptic density. Here we describe our robust, scientific approach toward developing a rational phytotherapeutic product based on Centella asiatica for human investigation, addressing multiple factors to optimize its valid clinical evaluation. Specific aspects covered include approaches to identifying an optimal dose range for clinical assessment, design and composition of a dosage form and matching placebo, sourcing appropriate botanical raw material for product manufacture (including the evaluation of active compounds and contaminants), and up-scaling of laboratory extraction methods to available current Good Manufacturing Practice (cGMP) certified industrial facilities. We also address the process of obtaining regulatory approvals to proceed with clinical trials. Our study highlights the complexity of translational research on botanicals and the importance of identifying active compounds and developing sound analytical and bioanalytical methods for their determination in botanical materials and biological samples. Recent Phase I pharmacokinetic studies of our Centella asiatica product in humans (NCT03929250, NCT03937908) have highlighted additional challenges associated with designing botanical bioavailability studies, including specific dietary considerations that need to be considered.
... HA-CA has been reported to possess various therapeutic effects on CNS such as anxiolytic, nervine tonic and also attenuates the effect of mental stress and enhances the learning and memory function and intelligence ( Rao et al., 1977 ). Apart from these effects, it also possesses antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects (Seevaratnam et al.). ...
Streptozotocin (STZ) causes learning and memory impairment in adult zebrafish by causing the disturbance in glucose and energy metabolism of the brain. Hydro-alcoholic extract of centella asiatica (HA-CA) has been demonstrated to improve cognitive functions due to its antioxidant property. In this study, adult zebrafish (approx 3 months old, weight range from 470–530 mg) was subjected to the STZ administration (300 mg/kg; i.p) followed by drug treatment with HA-CA (10 and 20 μg/mL) before 24 h of STZ administration followed by blood glucose level measurement, behavioral parameters (light and dark test and T-maze test) and biochemical parameters (protein estimation, LPO and AChEs activity). Exposure to STZ in adult zebrafish showed significant alterations in behavioural and biochemical analysis. In the light-dark test STZ treated zebrafish shown their preference in dark compartment as compared to normal group and in T-maze test STZ treated zebrafish has shown more time spent in the unfavorable zone with an increase in total latency (TL) as compared to the normal group. However, drug administration with CA (10 and 20 μg/mL) significantly improved the memory deficits in both light and dark test and T-maze test as compared to the STZ treated group which indicated improved memory function with a significant decrease in oxidative stress level (decrease LPO) and AChEs activity. HA- CA markedly improved memory functions in adult zebrafish due to its anti-oxidant potential.
... A study found that CA lowered stress, attenuated anxiety, negated depression and enhanced adjustment and attention in patients with general anxiety disorder without any adverse effects [12]. CA was also reported to exert anxiolytic activity [13], as well as improve mood, behavior and cognitive functions [14][15][16]. Furthermore, CA has been used widely in treating vascular diseases, such as venous hypertensive microangiopathy [17][18][19][20], diabetic microangiopathy [21,22] and chronic venous insufficiency [23,24]. ...
Centella asiatica is a popular herb well-known for its wide range of therapeutic effects and its use as a folk medicine for many years. Its therapeutic properties have been well correlated with the presence of asiaticoside, madecassoside, asiatic and madecassic acids, the pentacyclic triterpenes. The herb has been extensively known to treat skin conditions; nevertheless, several pre-clinical and clinical studies have scientifically demonstrated its effectiveness in other disorders. Among the active constituents that have been identified in Centella asiatica, madecassoside has been the subject of only a relatively small number of scientific reports. Therefore, this review, while including other major constituents of this plant, focuses on the therapeutic potential, pharmacokinetics and toxicity of madecassoside.
... The plant extract has been able to increase the brain GABA level in a dose dependant manner. [81] Further the plant administered orally to mentally retarded children has been found to produce very significant increase in both general adaptive ability and behavioral pattern and positive effect on intelligence [82] . ...
Ayurveda which literally means “the science of life” is the ancient Indian system of medicine. Rasayana is a specialized branch of Ayurveda. The drugs attributed with Rasayana properties are mentioned to delay the process of ageing, enhance the mental and cognitive functions and deliver freedom from a number of diseases including those caused by infectious organisms. All these activities of Rasayana drugs seem to be associated with neuro-endocrine-immune systems. In this study we have reviewed the growing inter-relationship between the neuro-endocrine-immune systems and stress as a neuro-endocrine-immune phenomenon. Some important Ayurvedic Rasayana drugs including Aswagandha (Withania somnifera), Tulsi (Ocimum sanctum), Guduchi (Tinospora cordifolia), Shilajit (Asphalt), Brahmi (Bacopa monnieri) and few others along with their pharmacological actions on the above three systems and stress as well have also been reviewed. It has been observed that most of them tend to exhibit their activities by modulating the neuro-endocrine-immune systems along with anti-stress/adaptogenic capability. The scientific inter-relationship between the three systems has been taken as the model reference. Similar actions are expected from other Rasayana drugs too. Therefore Rasayana drugs in Ayurveda can be evaluated and used as neuro-endocrine-immune modulators.
... [40] In addition the plant is also used in mentally retarded children to improve general mental ability and in people suffering from cognitive disorders. [41] The fresh leaf juice (extract) of Centella asiatica has been claimed to improved learning and memory in different clinical studies. [42] Excessive stress causes neuronal degeneration. ...
Abstracrt Introduction: Ketamine is a medication mainly used for starting and maintaining anesthesia. It induces a trance-like state while providing pain relief, sedation and memory loss. Ketamine causes morphological changes in the neuronal cells of growing rodent. Centella asiatica is used for memory enhancement in the ayurvadic system of medicine. It has been shown to be useful in improving learning and memory. Centella asiatica leaf extract treatment enhances neuronal dendritic arborization in hippocampus of growing rodent.Materials and Methods: Swiss albino mice were used for our experiment. Ketamine was administered subcutaneously and Centella-asiatica leaf extract was administered orally. Mice brain collected, grossed, processed and finally stained by Hematoxylin and Eosin (H&E) staining process for viewing cellular and tissue structure detail by pathologists. Results: Focal cellular damage was seen in CA2 and CA4 area of cornu ammonis (CA), expanded cytoplasmic eosinophilia saw in the pyramidal cell layers (PY) of CA2, expanded cytoplasmic eosinophilia found with obliteration of neurifibrilary components (NFE), typical pyramidal cell (NPY) in the CA4, ordinary engineering of dentate granule layers (DG) and hardly any cells were found with diminished size in regards to granule layer cells (GC) in the brain hippocampus of the high ketamine prompted mice. In the mouse brain hippocampus for high ketamine-Centella asiatica summed up cell destruction found in the CA1 to CA4 of CA. Expanded cytoplasmic eosinophilia found in the pyramidal cell layers of CA2 than high dose ketamine group. The vast majority of the pyramidal cells were necrotic (PYN) with annihilation of neurofibrilary components (NFE) in the pyramidal cell layers of CA4.
... Centella asiatica tablets administered orally to mentally retarded children showed significant increase in general ability and behaviour patterns (Rao Appa MVR, Srinivasan K and Rao KT.1973) [31] . ...
Centella asiatica (L.) is an effective medicinal plant for human beings. Centella asiatica (L.) randomly used in traditional medicine such as unani medicine, ayurvedic medicine and herbal medicine. It is a perennial, creeper, faintly aromatic and a valuable medicinal herb of all over the world. It is distributed throughout tropical and subtropical regions of World such as Bangladesh, India, China, Nepal, Madagascar, Srilanka and Indonesia etc. The requirement of Centella asiatica is now met from natural population, leading to their gradual depletion and thus followed by its placement in the list of threatened species as mentioned by International Union for Conservation of Nature and Natural Resources (IUCN). Much of the ancient and contemporary lore surrounding this plant with its chemistry and pharmacology related to efficacy of both herbal preparations and chemical isolates are justified on the basis of experimental evidences. This paper provides its immense importance as economic plant with medicinal value as well as brief information of its products in the market launched, showing its dependability.
... A small clinical trial involving fifteen patients has demonstrated the antiulcer activity after oral administration of the extract of Centella asiatica at the dose level of 0.06g/kg daily. About 93% of the patients showed a significant improvement in subjective [36]. In an experimental study on albino rats, Centella asiatica has been found to produce antiulcer effect in cold restraint stressinduced gastric ulcer, aspirin-induced gastric ulcer and pyloric ligation-induced peptic ulcer models. ...
... Although many in vivo studies have been carried out on central-nervous-system-(CNS-) related effects of C. asiatica, the literature survey has revealed presence of only a limited number of clinical studies with this species. The results of an early double-blind clinical study on the children with mental deficiency in 1977 showed that a statistically significant improvement was recorded in the children in 3rd and 6th months following administration of C. asiatica [85]. ...
This paper covers the studies relevant to neuroprotective activity of Centella asiatica (L.) Urban, also known as “Gotu Kola.” The plant is native to the Southeast Asia and has been used traditionally as brain tonic in ayurvedic medicine. The neuroprotective effect of C. asiatica has been searched using the key words “Centella, Centella asiatica, gotu kola, Asiatic pennywort, neuroprotection, and memory” through the electronic databases including Sciencedirect, Web of Science, Scopus, Pubmed, and Google Scholar. According to the literature survey, C. asiatica (gotu kola) has been reported to have a comprehensive neuroprotection by different modes of action such as enzyme inhibition, prevention of amyloid plaque formation in Alzheimer’s disease, dopamine neurotoxicity in Parkinson’s disease, and decreasing oxidative stress. Therefore, C. asiatica could be suggested to be a desired phytopharmaceutical with neuroprotective effect emerged from traditional medicine.
... C. asiatica is also reported to be effective for autoimmune rheumatic disease like scleroderma, cirrhosis of liver ( Darnis et al. 1979), asthma, bronchitis, eczemas, anxiety, mental disorders, urethritis (Bylka et al., 2014;Mathur et al. 2007;Gohil et al. 2010 andPrasad et al. 2013) and in digestive disorders. Memory of mentally weak children can be increased by the use of the C. asiatica (Apparao et al., 1973 andKakkar, 1990). The active principles responsible for its medical potential are pentacyclic triterpenoid saponins which include asiaticoside, madecassoside, madecassic acids, asiatic acid, etc. (James and Dubery, 2009), together known as centelloids. ...
... In the present study, ethyl acetate fractions of Mandookaparni and Liquorice showed significant AChE inhibition in a TLC bioautographic assay. The whole plant of C. asiatica was shown to be beneficial in improving memory and the general mental ability of mentally retarded children [9,10]. In pharmacological studies, the plant extract was reported to improve the maze learning in rats [11]. ...
Acetylcholinesterase inhibition is considered as the most suitable therapeutic strategy for Alzheimer's disease. As synthetic drugs lack selective activity, efficacy and bioavailability, many traditional remedies have been explored for improving cognitive function. In the present study, indigenous plants namely Mandookaparni, Liquorice, Gaduchi, Long pepper and Ukshi were screened for acetylcholinesterase inhibition. Methanolic extracts of selected plants were prepared by soxhlet extraction and subjected to preliminary solvent-solvent extraction using dichloromethane and ethyl acetate. All the fractions were screened for acetylcholinesterase inhibition by a modified thin layer chromatography bioautographic method. Ethyl acetate fractions of Mandookaparni and Liquorice exhibited inhibition at Rf 0.74 and 0.76, respectively. Aqueous methanol fraction of Gaduchi showed significant inhibition at Rf 0.61 and 0.8 while this was at Rf 0.68 for Long pepper. The presence of active constituents like flavonoids, saponins and alkaloids seem to be responsible for the inhibitory activity observed in the present study. The selected indigenous plants could be important in the management of AD and identification of active constituents and further evaluation of their clinical efficacy and potential toxicity in larger trials is very much required.
... Centella asiatica tablets administered orally to mentally retarded children showed significant increase in general ability and behaviour patterns [69,70]. ...
India is called the botanical garden of the world for its rich natural resources. Over 6000 plants in India are in used in traditional, folklore and herbal medicine. The Indian system of medicine has identified 1500 medicinal plants of which 500 are commonly used. Plants have a long therapeutic history over thousands of years and still considered to be promising source of medicine in the traditional health care system. The efficacy and safety of herbal medicine have turned the major pharmaceutical population towards medicinal plant’s research. In view of the widespread interest on using medicinal plants the present review on Centella asiatica and Momordica charantia is to provide information, in references to botanical, commercial, ethnopharmacological, phytochemical and pharmacological studies.
... This plant is also found to improve short-term memory and learning [21] and possesses a protective effect against oxidative damage caused by lead acetate induced neurotoxicity [22]. As concluded by various experimental studies, Centella asiatica has anti-ulcer, wound healing, neuro-protective and cardioprotective properties [23]. Its extract shows protective effects against cognitive deficits and oxidative stress which further results in improving memory retention [24]. ...
... Determination of phase of disease is important for treatment. [18] In the present study, we investigated the relationship between IQ, SQ, and performance quotient (PQ) as well as the relationship of Ayurveda parameters (Prakriti) and maladaptive behavior of children who have intelligence lower than average (moderate to mild categories). ...
Background
Intelligence quotient (IQ) and social quotient (SQ) are comparable in predicting intelligence status. The latter is assessed whenever IQ testing is not possible. According to Ayurveda, Buddhi (intelligence) is affected by Prakriti (body constitution) which depends on the predominance of Tridosha and Triguna. There is a paucity of studies to examine their association. The study was designed to examine correlation among IQ, SQ, performance quotient (PQ) and maladaptive behaviour; and to find out their relationship with primary (Anubandhya) and secondary (Anubandha) doshas with intelligence in children with mild to moderate intellectual disability.
Methodology
Children (n = 120) were recruited from outpatient department of a tertiary care hospital as part of a clinical trial of a novel Ayurveda formulation. Stanford Binet Scale, Vineland Social Maturity Scale, Seguin Form Board Test, and Maladaptive Behavior Schedule-II were administered. Ayurvedic parameters were assessed clinically by Ayurveda practitioner. Separate regression analyses were carried out to look for associations.
Results
IQ and SQ were positively correlated (P = 0.01). Maladaptive behavior and SQ were negatively correlated (0.05). SQ was associated with secondary dosha (P = 0.002) and stage of disease (Roga Kriyakala) (P = 0.015). IQ was also associated with secondary dosha (P = 0.008).
Conclusion
SQ and IQ are positively correlated. The correlation of Anubandha (secondary) dosha was high on IQ and SQ.
... More recent clinical trials found improvements in cognition and mood following large daily chronic doses (750 mg per day) in adults [49]. One clinical trial found improvements in general mental ability in mentally retarded children following six months administration [62]. Table 5. Cont. ...
Background: The Ayurvedic medicinal system employs a holistic approach to health, utilising the synergistic properties of organic resources. Research into the Ayurvedic herb Bacopa monnieri (L.) Wettst. (B.monnieri) has reported improvements in cognitive outcomes in child and adult populations. The aim of current review is to systematically assess and critically summarize clinical trials investigating B.monnieri-dominant poly-herbal formulas and their effects on the cognition, memory, learning, and behaviour in children and adolescents. Methods: Key word searches were performed using PubMed, Scopus, Cochrane Library, DHARA, and CINAHL for publications meeting inclusion criteria up to November 2017. There were no restrictions in study design. Effect sizes were calculated for all significant findings to allow for direct comparisons, and each study was evaluated on design quality. Cognitive and behavioural outcomes were grouped into validated constructs for cross-study comparison. Results: Nine trials met inclusion criteria. Five studies reported sufficient data for effect size analysis with most improvements reported in behavioural outcomes. True cognitive abilities and behavioural constructs were reviewed in six studies, with visual perception, impulsivity, and attention demonstrating the greatest improvements. The veracity of the evidence for the formulations reviewed is weakened by inconsistent statistical design and under-reporting of safety and tolerability data (44%). Conclusions: The current review extends research supporting B.monnieri as a cognitive enhancer and provides modest evidence for the use of B.monnieri in poly-herbal preparations for improving cognitive and behavioural outcomes in child and adolescent populations. Greater emphasis on statistical vigour and the reporting of tolerability data are essential for future trials to adequately document poly-herbal treatment efficacy.
... Our literature search revealed fewer than ten human studies focusing on neurological disorders (Table 4a and 4b). Each of these studies reported improvements in cognition (Appa Rao et al. 1973;Dev et al. 2009;Farhana et al. 2016;Rakesh et al. 2013;Tiwari et al. 2008;Wattanathorn et al. 2008), mood (Bradwejn et al. 2000;Jana et al. 2010;Wattanathorn et al. 2008) and/or quality of life (Mato et al. 2011;Tiwari et al. 2008) with C. asiatica supplementation. One of the studies noted differences in cognitive outcomes based upon gender where the males had improvements in three out of eight cognitive measures (long-term retrieval, visual spatial thinking and speed processing), whereas females had improvements in five measures (long-term retrieval, short-term memory, working memory, executive process and delayed recall) (Dev et al. 2009). ...
This review describes in detail the phytochemistry and neurological effects of the medicinal herb Centella asiatica (L.) Urban. C. asiatica is a small perennial plant that grows in moist, tropical and sub-tropical regions throughout the world. Phytochemicals identified from C. asiatica to date include isoprenoids (sesquiterpenes, plant sterols, pentacyclic triterpenoids and saponins) and phenylpropanoid derivatives (eugenol derivatives, caffeoylquinic acids, and flavonoids). Contemporary methods for fingerprinting and characterization of compounds in C. asiatica extracts include liquid chromatography and/or ion mobility spectrometry in conjunction with high-resolution mass spectrometry. Multiple studies in rodent models, and a limited number of human studies, support C. asiatica’s traditional reputation as a cognitive enhancer, as well as its anxiolytic and anticonvulsant effects. Neuroprotective effects of C. asiatica are seen in several in vitro models, for example against beta amyloid toxicity, and appear to be associated with increased mitochondrial activity, improved antioxidant status, and/or inhibition of the pro-inflammatory enzyme, phospholipase A2. Neurotropic effects of C. asiatica include increased dendritic arborization and synaptogenesis, and may be due to modulations of signal transduction pathways such as ERK1/2 and Akt. Many of these neurotropic and neuroprotective properties of C. asiatica have been associated with the triterpene compounds asiatic acid, asiaticoside and madecassoside. More recently, caffeoylquinic acids are emerging as a second important group of active compounds in C. asiatica, with the potential of enhancing the Nrf2-antioxidant response pathway. The absorption, distribution, metabolism and excretion of the triterpenes, caffeoylquinic acids and flavonoids found in C. asiatica have been studied in humans and animal models, and the compounds or their metabolites found in the brain. This review highlights the remarkable potential for C. asiatica extracts and derivatives to be used in the treatment of neurological conditions, and considers the further research needed to actualize this possibility.
... Alcoholic extract of the entire plant showed antiprotozoal activity against Entamoeba histolytica (Rao et al, 1973) ...
Centella asiatica is one of the important medicinal and nutraceutical herbs being employed by ethnic people since prehistoric times. This plant is indigenous to South-East Asia, India, Madagascar, South-East U.S, Sri Lanka, some parts of China, Mexico, Venezuela, South Africa, Eastern and South America. It is in abundance on moist clayey or sandy soils, often found in large clumps forming weed in crop fields and other waste places throughout India. It accumulates large amount of pentacyclictriterpenoids aponins which forms the major store house of extra metabolites providing active compounds which encourage cell rejuvenation, improving physical and mental health. Triterpenoid and saponins, the primary constituents of Centella asiatica are mainly believed to be in charge of its wide therapeutic actions. The juice of Centella asiatica promotes longevity, cures all diseases, strength, digestive power, complexion, voice and intellect. From wound healing apart, the herb is recommended for treating various skin conditions such as leprosy, lupus, varicose ulcers, eczema, psoriasis, diarrhoea, fever, amenorrhea, diseases of the female genitourinary tract and for relieving anxiety and improving cognition also. It can be used for rejuvenating as a nervine tonic. The present review attempts to provide comprehensive elevators phytochemistry, pharmacology, mechanisms of action, various preclinical and clinical studies and current research prospects of the herb
... Quality of included studies. Three of the studies (27%) [29][30][31] had a high risk of bias, seven studies (64%) were unclear 25,27,28,[32][33][34][35] , and one study (9%) had a low risk of bias 26 . Although, all studies stated that they were randomized controlled trials, four of the trials (36%) were found to have unclear risk of bias for "sequence generation" because there was no description of the sequence generation methods. ...
Centella asiatica (L.) Urb. has been used as an herbal brain tonic for mental disorders and enhancing memory, but no review of the overall evidence of C. asiatica and cognitive function has been conducted. This study aims to determine the effects of C. asiatica on cognitive function and its related properties. The current systematic review includes five randomized controlled trials (RCTs) conducted to determine the effect of C. asiatica alone and six RCTs conducted to determine the effect of C. asiatica-containing products. Meta-analysis indicated that there are no significant differences in all cognitive function domains of C. asiatica when compared to placebo. However, it could improve mood by increasing alert scores [SMD: 0.71 (95% CI; 0.01 to 1.41); I² = 30.5%] and decreasing anger scores at 1 hour after treatment [SMD: −0.81 (95%CI; −1.51 to −0.09); I² = 36.6%]. None of the studies reported adverse effects of C. asiatica. In conclusion, there is not strong evidence to support the use of C. asiatica for cognitive function improvement in each cognitive domain. C. asiatica could improve alertness and relieve anger. However, some limitations should be aware including dose regimen, plant preparation, standardization, and product variation. Future well-designed clinical trials using suitable doses of standardized C. asiatica are still needed.
... 'Manasa Mandata' is the term used for mental retardation. [56] Generally, patients with physical disabilities prefer such centres. ...
... Individuals suffering from mental retardation may experience cognitive improvement with Centella asiatica, Bacopa monnieri, or Mentat. In a double-blind, placebo-controlled study involving 30 children with mental retardation, subjects receiving Centella for 12 weeks showed a significant increase in the Binet-Kamat Intelligence Quotient and outperformed controls on measures of cooperation, concentration, attention, and overall adjustment (Appa Rao, Srinivasan and Koteswara Rao, 1973; the positive findings persisted at six months (Appa Rao, Srinivasan and Koteswara Rao, 1977). In a single-blind, placebo-controlled study involving 286 adults with mild, moderate and severe mental retardation, subjects with mild to moderate mental retardation receiving Bacopa daily for one year showed significant improvement in concentration, memory span, and overall cognitive ability (Agrawal, Dixit, Gupta et al, 1993); subjects with severe mental retardation showed no improvement with either Bacopa or placebo. ...
The widespread use of nonconventional treatments, or complementary and alternative medicine (CAM), and the increasing evidence supporting their therapeutic benefits call for a concerted scientific effort to integrate treatments that work into mainstream medicines.
Answering that call is the groundbreaking Complementary and Alternative Treatments in Mental Health Care, a concise, practical reference that reviews the many CAM approaches used in North America and Europe to treat—or self-treat—mental health problems, and the history and rationale for a variety of CAM treatments, including the risks and benefits of their integration into mainstream mental health care. Two dozen contributors with both conventional and nonconventional expertise present current information about safe, effective mental health treatments—including herbals and other natural products, stress management, homeopathy, Ayurveda, and traditional Chinese medicine—that have not yet been fully examined or endorsed by the institutions of conventional biomedicine.
... Centella asiatica are asiaticosides, madecassoide, madecassic acid, asiatic acid, brahmosides, brahmic acid, brahminosides, thankuniside, isothankunoside, centelloside, madasiatic acid, centic acid, cenellic acid, betulinic acid, indocentic acid, glucose, rhamanose, terpenoids (Kuroda et al., 2001), sitosterol, stigmasterol with calcium, iron and phosphate (Jiang et al., 2005). It is mainly used as brain tonic and claimed to possesses a wide range of pharmacological effects like wound healing (Suguna et al., 1996;Shetty et al., 2006), mental disorder (Appa Rao et al., 1977) like antidepressant (Qin et al., 1998), antitumour (Huang et al., 2004;Babu et al., 1995), atherosclerosis (Brinkhaus et al., 2000), fungicidal (Jagtap et al., 2009), antibacterial (Oyedeji et al., 2005), antioxidant (Jayashree et al., 2003;Zainol et al., 2003;), anticancer (Bunpo et al., 2004;Park et al., 2005), IJP antinociceptive, ulcer (Shetty et al., 2006), antiinflammatory (Somchit et al., 2004) and hepatoprotective activity (Antony et al., 2006). The triterpenoids present in this plant may change gene expression in human fibroblast cells and can be used in treatment of oedema with capillary filtration in venous hypertension (De Sanctis et al., 2001;Coldren et al., 2003). ...
Aluminum (Al) is a ubiquitous element on planet earth and its exposure to human systems is increasing steadily due to industrialization. Its accumulation in the biological systems have deleterious effects such as neurodegeneration and cognitive impairment. Centella asiatica L. (CA) is a herb used in the Ayurveda system of medicine as a neurotonic and for enhancement of memory. This study aimed at assessing the protective role of CA in aluminum chloride (AlCl3) induced cognitive dysfunction in rats. Results have shown that AlCl3 toxicity caused significant (p < 0.05) cognitive dysfunction of both spatial and non-spatial memory in rats, histopathological aberration of cerebral cortex and significant (p < 0.05) increase in the level of acetylcholinesterase in their brain. However, administration of CA irrespective of the dose given prevented all the observed changes which are comparable to a standard drug donepezil. CA prevented cognitive impairment and neurodegeneration in rats by decreasing the level of acetylcholinesterase. Hence, CA could be developed as a memory enhancing drug.
Health is the state of well-being in physical, social, spiritual, and mental health. Apart from physical health, mental health is of prime importance. The brain is one of the most complex organs in the body. The brain has multiple tasking abilities like learn, play, concentrate, remember and it helps in sustaining a clear mind. Brain comprises around 60% fat with omega 3 fatty acid and Docosahexaenoic acid, these two supports the normal neuronal membranes. The modern diet lacking in omega 3 and DHA may harm cognitive development. In the world, India stands second place with a population of 135.26 crores. India comprises one fifth of the adolescent population that is around 27.05% of the total population. According to the American Association on Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities, “Mental retardation is a disability characterized by significant limitations both in intellectual functioning and in adaptive behaviour. Mental health in adolescents is neglected and it increased morbidity and mortality during recent years. Cognitive development in adolescence occurs in three main areas. The three areas are advanced reasoning skills, abstract thinking, and formal operational thinking. The psychiatric disorders in adolescents begin before the age of 14 and nearly 50% of adolescents are affected during this period. The remaining 20% of the adolescent’s population are affected by predisposing or precipitating factor. Plants have been used as a medicine based on folk remedies and experience. Due to the immense potential of medicinal plants, the research work was planned to carry out on plant based medicine. Various nutraceuticals and pharmaceutical components have been derived from medicinal plants. Plants such as Centella asiatica, Bacopa monnieri, and various herbs are rich source of omega 3, Alpha-linolenic acid, Minerals and Vitamins which helps in cognitive development and work as memory enhancer in human being.
Centella asiatica is rich in pentacyclic triterpenes that have been associated with several beneficial health effects. Several earlier studies investigated the effects of long term intake of C. asiatica on several cognitive functions and mood, either in the form of dried herb, powder, supplements or extract, but not as a fresh herb in a human intervention study. In this research, for the first time, the short-term effect of consuming a single smoothie, containing two concentrations of the fresh herb, on the cognition and mood of healthy female participants was investigated. Madecassic acid was the major triterpene in the fresh leaves of C. asiatica. Cognitive performance and mood dimensions were assessed before and one hour after consuming a single serving of smoothies. Alertness and contentedness factors significantly improved with higher concentration of C. asiatica. No significant improvements in cognitive functions after one hour of consumption were found.
Centella asiatica (CA) (also known as Mandukaparni) an effective neuroprotective and there for also called brain tonic. The plant has been used in Ayurveda and other Asian traditional medicine system as a memory enhancing drug. It is distributed throughout tropical and subtropical countries from 200 to 2100 m a.s.l. and is native to Asia, Africa, America. The plant is rich in carotenoids Vitamins B & C content. The protective effect on the central nervous system is generally associated to its bioactive compounds including asiatic acid, madecassic acid, asiaticoside, madecassoside, and brahmic acid. CA has been reported to have a comprehensive neuroprotection by different modes of action such as enzyme inhibition, prevention of amyloid plaque formation in Alzheimer’s disease, decreasing oxidative stress etc. This makes CA a desired herb for Alzheimer’s disease.
Medicinal plants have been used since ancient times for the treatment of a range of diseases. Nowadays medicinal plants have attained a significant role in health system all over the world for both humans and animals not only in the diseased condition but also as potential material for maintaining proper health. In this era, focus on plant research has increased all over the world and a large body of evidence has been accumulated to highlight the immense potential of medicinal plants used in various traditional systems of medicine. Amongst various medicinal plants Brahmi (Centella asiatica Linn.) is one of the most useful plants seen in Unani system of medicine. Centella asiatica Linn. is an imperative medicinal drug which possesses significant medicinal properties, especially those involving cognition. It has been extensively used In Unani system of medicine, as Muqawwi-e-Dimagh (brain tonic), Muqawwi-e-Asab (nervine tonic) and Musakkin-e-Asab (tranquiliser) drug in various neuro-psychiatric disorders e.g. Zof-e-Dimagh (cerebral asthenia), Zof-e-Asab (neuroasthenia), Zof-e-Hafiza (poor memory), Nisyan (amnesia), Junoon (insanity), Akhtanaqur Rahem (Hysteria) The present paper reviews Brahmi (Centella asiatica Linn.) as a medicinal plant and highlights its benefits in various health problems.
Medicinal plants have been used since ancient times for the treatment of a range of diseases. Nowadays medicinal plants have attained a significant role in health system all over the world for both humans and animals not only in the diseased condition but also as potential material for maintaining proper health. In this era, focus on plant research has increased all over the world and a large body of evidence has been accumulated to highlight the immense potential of medicinal plants used in various traditional systems of medicine. Amongst various medicinal plants Brahmi (Centella asiatica Linn.) is one of the most useful plants seen in Unani system of medicine. Centella asiatica Linn. is an imperative medicinal drug which possesses significant medicinal properties, especially those involving cognition. It has been extensively used In Unani system of medicine, as Muqawwi-e-Dimagh (brain tonic), Muqawwi-e-Asab (nervine tonic) and Musakkin-e-Asab (tranquiliser) drug in various neuro-psychiatric disorders e.g. Zof-e-Dimagh (cerebral asthenia), Zof-e-Asab (neuroasthenia), Zof-e-Hafiza (poor memory), Nisyan (amnesia), Junoon (insanity), Akhtanaqur Rahem (Hysteria) The present paper reviews Brahmi (Centella asiatica Linn.) as a medicinal plant and highlights its benefits in various health problems.
Ayurveda is one of the ancient traditional healthcare systems that originated in India. A number of herbal-based medicinal preparations have been used for the treatment of health disorders associated with the nervous system. According to Alzheimer’s disease Facts and Figures, millions of people around the world are suffering with cognitive impairment. Cognitive ailments and diseases are a group of disorders associated with mental health. The cognitive disorders mainly comprise of acute and chronic or reversible or irreversible conditions such as amnesia, delirium, and various types of dementia. These disorders primarily cause deficits in cognitive tasks associated with awareness, insight, knowledge, memory, and problem-solving skills. Alzheimer’s disease is the most common type of dementia. It is a chronic neurodegenerative disorder that occurs due to excessive protein deposition inside and outside the neuron, oxidative stress, apoptosis, mitochondrial dysfunction, inflammation, and excitotoxicity. These neurotoxic mechanisms cause synaptic disturbance, alteration of neurotransmission leading to neurodegeneration. Centella asiatica is a well-known medicinal herb used in Ayurveda to improve cognitive functions since ancient times. In this article, we review the therapeutic potential of Centella asiatica in relation to its neuroprotective properties.
Asiaticoside (AS), a triterpenoid saponin isolated from the Indian medicinal herb Centella asiatica is known to exert a neuroprotective effect by attenuating the neurobehavioral, neurochemical and pathological changes in animal models. However, its potential neuroprotection in rotenone-induced hemiparkinsonism which implicates phospholipid-mediated neurotransmission remains unclear. Therefore, we have investigated the neuroprotective effects of AS in rat model of ROT-infused hemiparkinsonism with respect to phosphoinositides-assisted cytodynamics and synaptic function. Adult male Sprague-Dawley rats (250–300 g) were distributed randomly into 6 groups, with 6 rats in each group: Sham control, Vehicle control (DMSO-0.1%), ROT-infused group (6 μg/μl/kg), AS-treated group (50 mg/kg/day), Drug (AS) control and Levodopa (l-DOPA)-treated group (6 mg/kg/day). At the end of the experimental period, the rats were sacrificed after performing behavioral analyses and the striatum regions were dissected out. Phosphoinositides (PI) are involved in intrinsic membrane signals that regulate intracellular membrane trafficking vesicle and endocytosis. We have assessed mRNA and protein expressions of genes involved in PI-mediated signaling and also in synaptic function (PI3K, PDK 1, PEBP, Stx 1A and TH) in addition to the levels of neurotransmitters and the enzymatic antioxidant profile. AS caused an improved working memory and motor co-ordination in the ROT group. It alters the levels of neurotransmitters (p < 0.01), the expression of mRNA and protein assessed which were significantly affected (P < 0.001) by rotenone, thus exhibiting its intervention in the progression of neurodegeneration. We demonstrate that AS can mediate distinct function in PI-assisted vesicle endocytosis, cytoprotective signaling and in the synaptic function thereby mitigating the ROT-infused hemiparkinsonism, however, its specific regulatory role remains to be unraveled.
Pegagan (Centella asiatica (L) Urban) has been described to posses CNS effects such as improving cognitive function, learning and memory. The aim of the research was to evaluate the effects of total triterpen’s pegagan extract on cognitive functions as the learning and memory performance in male albino mice (Mus musculus) inhibited by scopolamine. The research design was Complete Randomized Design (RAL) – factorial on thirty six mice divided into 4 groups. One control group received only aquabidest (negative control). Three treatment groups received total triterpen 16 mg/kg BW, 32 mg/kg BW orally and piracetam 500 mg/kg BW by intra peritoneally (positive control) for 21 days. Data indicating learning and memory process of all subjects were obtained from one-trial passive avoidance test. Data were analyzed by two way ANOVA and BNT (p<0,05). Result showed that total triterpen 32 mg/kg BW had significantly prolonged the retention time compared to control group indicating improvement in cognitive function (505,03 second vs -18,53 second) (p<0,05) and it was not significantly different to piracetam 500 mg/kg BW group (505,03 second vs 522,48 second) (p>0,05). In conclusion, total triterpen from pegagan (Centella asiatica (L) Urban) improved learning ability and memory of male albino mice (Mus musculus) even though, it was inhibited by scopolamine.
Centella asiatica (Linn.) is a versatile traditional medicinal herb, used for a variety of clinical problems including mental disorders, atherosclerosis, inflammation, diarrhea, asthma, tuberculosis and various skin lesions such as leprosy, lupus, and psoriasis. Numerous clinical reports verify its ulcer-preventive ability, and the ability to improve venous insufficiency and microangiopathy. This study validates the efficacy claim of the herb in skin lesions, and demonstrates that the dried aerial part of the herb, extracted in 70% alcohol, augments the wound healing process in animal model.
Sleep deprivation (SD) is an experience of inadequate or poor quality of sleep that may produce significant alterations in multiple neural systems. Centella asiatica (CA) is a psychoactive medicinal herb with immense therapeutic potential. The present study was designed to explore the possible nitric oxide (NO) modulatory mechanism in the neuroprotective effect of CA against SD induced anxiety like behaviour, oxidative damage and neuroinflammation. Male laca mice were sleep deprived for 72 h, and CA (150 and 300 mg/kg) was administered alone and in combination with NO modulators for 8 days, starting five days before 72-h SD exposure. Various behavioural (locomotor activity, elevated plus maze) and biochemical (lipid peroxidation, reduced glutathione, catalase, nitrite levels and superoxide dismutase activity), neuroinflammation marker (TNF-alpha) were assessed subsequently. CA (150 and 300 mg/kg) treatment for 8 days significantly improved locomotor activity, anti-anxiety like effect and attenuated oxidative damage and TNF α level as compared to sleep-deprived 72-h group. Also while the neuroprotective effect of CA was increased by NO antagonists, it was diminished by NO agonists. The present study suggests that NO modulatory mechanism could be involved in the protective effect of CA against SD-induced anxiety-like behaviour, oxidative damage and neuroinflammation in mice. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Epilepsy is one of the most common neurological disorders affecting the people across all nationalities. Despite the optimal use of available antiepileptic drugs, still the goal of the treatment of epilepsy to completely control the seizures is not yet pursued. Even though, it is possible at the expense of significant toxic side effects. The present study was undertaken to investigate the effect of Centella asiatica (CAE) hydro alcoholic extract and Glycerrhiza glabra ethanolic extract (GGE) on convulsions in albino rats. In PTZ induced convulsions, the parameter monitored was onset of convulsions (as indicated by Jerks, Clonus and Extensor). These parameters were analyzed by using One-way analysis of variance (ANOVA), expressed as Mean + SEM, followed by Dunnet's t test. P-values <0.01 were considered as significant. PTZ (70 mg/kg s.c.) was used for inducing convulsions in all three groups. In CAE +GGE groups, onset of time (seconds) to show convulsions such as Jerks and Clonus were 3.5±0.34 and 13.50 + 3.4 as compared to control group 6.000+0.25 and 45.50 + 8.40 respectively. The animal is CAE + GGE treated group showed a significant difference in delaying the onset of convulsions. Co-administration of C. asiatica and G. glabra extracts showed a significant protection against PTZ induced seizures in rats by reducing the severity of the convulsions when compared with control rats (p<0.05). Marked reduction in the mortality (33.33%) further evidenced the preventive effect of extracts.
Objective: To determine the effect of Centella Asiatica on Neuro pharmacological activities as memory, behavior (anxiety, depression). Study Design: Experimental Study. Place of study: This study was conducted in the department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Karachi, Karachi from 15 th March 2011 to 30 th April, 2011. Materials and Methods: Albino mice and albino rats were used. Animals were divided into control and treated groups (10 animals each). Neuro pharmacological parameters were assessed using standard techniques as Stationary rod activity, Swimming induced depression (FST), Open field, Light and dark box test and water maze model. Control group was maintained on distilled water and treated group was fed with 8.3 mg/kg Centella asiatica for 10 days. Observations were taken on 1 st, 5 th and 10 th days. Results: The results showed decline in the elapsed time taken by animal to reach the platform in Stationary rod and water maze model, significantly enhanced struggling time in FST, decreased number of peripheral square crosses but relatively increased central square crosses on 10 day in open field test and increased time spent in light box in Light and dark box model. Conclusion: It can be concluded that Centella asiatica enhances memory and show antidepressant activity on acute administration while chronic use results in anxiolytic behavior.
Numerous medicinal plants are mentioned in ancient Indian literature as cognition enhancers. Among these plants, Centella asiatica (CeA) has been used to improve memory. This study demonstrated the effect of CeA on learning ability and memory in male Wistar rats. The rats were trained at various periods by intragastric administration of CeA to the test group at a dosage of 2mg/0.5 ml of distilled water/day (12mg/ kg body weight) for 10 days and compared with the control group by an Operant conditioning technique, n = 6 in both groups. The two important parameters studied were latency period and the total number of bar pressings which correspond to memory retention and task learning respectively. The results were analyzed using the paired Student's t-test. The CeA treated group showed a significant decrease in the latency period as compared to controls which suggested an improvement in retaining the learnt task as good retention of memory (P < 0.05). The number of bar pressings did not change significantly in the test group, due to lack of CeA action on the learning process. The results conclude that the CeA had facilitated the retention of a learnt task for a longer period as good retension of memory but did not accelerated the learning process as expected.
To investigate in vitro antimicrobial activity of aerial parts of Calotropis procera and Centella asatica Linn., that have been popularly used as folk medicines. The organic solvent plant extracts are tested on the various microorganisms including bacteria and fungi using agar well diffusion technique. The length of the inhibition zone was measured in millimeters from the edge of the well to the edge of the inhibition zone. C. procera showed significant to moderate activity against (14 mm) Pseudomonas marginalis and (21 mm) Streptococcus mutans with 100 mg/ml DMSO plant drug concentration. The results of (MICs) values are lowest at 66 and highest at 152 mg/ml for C. procera whereas 0 to 155 mg/ml for C. asatica. The extracts were assessed in an effort to validate the potential activity of the medicinal plants against microbes.
The phenomenal growth of public interest in alternatives to Western treatments for human disease has spilled over into veterinary medicine. Many holistic veterinarians and pet owners are now interested in using alternative remedies to solve health problems with their pets. Psychoactive Herbs in Veterinary Behavior Medicine is the first text on psychoactive herbal remedies for the treatment of behavior problems in small animals. Psychoactive Herbs in Veterinary Behavior Medicine is an important guide for board-certified veterinary behaviorists, as well as veterinarians and veterinary students with a particular interest in behavior medicine. In addition, pet owners interested in alternative medicine for their misbehaving pets can use this well-rounded work to make informed decisions on the use of over-the-counter remedies.
ResearchGate has not been able to resolve any references for this publication.