Herbomineral form of Eclipta alba (HMEA) improves age-related dementia by increasing memory performance in animal models: An in vivo approach to investigate the multitherapeutic potential of antioxidant-based Ayurvedic drugs

Abstract

Dementia is a consequential event due to neurodegeneration, which is a prevalent aspect of aging and other diseases associated with neuropathological conditions. The main contributor to dementia is the depletion of neurons in cognitive centers that results in cognitive decline. Cellular damage and apoptosis can occur due to excessive oxidative stress and reduced antioxidant levels. Epidemiological research provides valuable insights into dementia, but current treatments primarily focus on alleviating symptoms rather than addressing the root cause. Both modern and traditional medicines recognize the importance of maintaining cellular antioxidant levels and reduction in amyloid beta aggregation, often relying on natural sources for support. The identification of herbal plants with abundant pharmacologically active secondary metabolites shows promise in the treatment of dementia. Eclipta alba is an ancient traditional herb that elicits nootropic effects. This study reports that the herbomineral form of E. alba (HMEA) constitutes pharmacologically active metabolites and enhances memory and learning in 9- to 12-month-old albino wistar rats. Interestingly, HMEA enhanced learning and memory in adult rats with no significant toxicity, and found to stabilize lipid profile levels in animal models. Histopathological studies of animals showed that HMEA enhanced overall cytoarchitecture of granular cell layer in the hippocampus. It depicts improved cellular morphology, arrangement, and density in the hippocampal region. Taken together, the current study proves HMEA to be an efficient neuroprotective agent in treating age-related dementia.