Unveiling the Neurocognitive Potential: A Comprehensive Evaluation on Acetylcholine and Memory-Enhancing Activity of Ethanol Extract from Ficus benghalensis in Scopolamine-Induced Amnesia

Abstract

Ficus benghalensis , is a medicinal plant with potential pharmacological properties. This study aimed to comprehensively evaluate the memory-enhancing activity of an ethanol extract from Ficus benghalensis and its impact on acetylcholine levels in a scopolamine-induced amnesia model. Albino Wister rats were used for the experiments. The ethanol extract from Ficus benghalensis was prepared and administered to the rats at a dose of 100, 200 mg/kg. The scopolamine-induced amnesia model was established by injecting scopolamine. The memory and cognitive function of the rat were assessed using appropriate behavioral tests, such as the elevated plus maze, and passive avoidance test. Acetylcholinesterase activity was measured using specific biochemical assays. The ethanol extract from Ficus benghalensis at a dose of 200 mg/kg exhibited significant memory enhancement in the scopolamine-induced amnesia model. The treated group showed improved performance compared to the control group. Furthermore, the extract demonstrated inhibitory effects on acetylcholineesterase activity, leading to increased levels of acetylcholine. These findings contribute to the understanding of the neurocognitive potential of Ficus benghalensis and its therapeutic implications in memory-related disorders.