A Specific Herbal Mixture of Lavandula, Cloves, Rosa, Astragalus, and Cornus Mas (LCRAC) Improves Cognitive Function in a Rat Model of Streptozotocin-Induced Mild Cognitive Impairment.

BACKGROUND

In this study, researchers evaluated the effects of a plant-based mixture called LCRAC (containing Lavandula angustifolia Mill., Syzygium aromaticum (L.) Merr. and L. M. Perry, Rosa damascena Herrm., Astragalus membranaceus (Fisch.) Bunge, and Cornus mas L.) on cognition and depression in a rat model of mild cognitive impairment (MCI).

MATERIALS AND

METHODS

Sixty male Wistar rats were randomly assigned to six groups and MCI was induced by intracerebroventricular injection of streptozotocin (STZ). LCRAC (20, 40, or 80 mg/kg/day) was administered by gavage for 14 days. Spatial learning and memory, working memory, and avoidance learning were assessed using the Morris water maze (MWM) test, Y-maze continuous alternation task (Y-CAT), and passive avoidance test, respectively. Depressive-like behaviors were examined using the forced swim test (FST). Comprehensive biochemical and histopathological analyses were performed to assess potential toxicity.

RESULTS

LCRAC treatment significantly improved spatial learning and memory, working memory, and avoidance learning in the STZ-induced MCI rats. LCRAC also exhibited antidepressant-like effects, decreasing immobility time in the FST. Importantly, LCRAC administration did not induce any significant changes in serum biochemical markers or histopathological alterations in the kidney, liver, or hippocampus.

CONCLUSION

The study suggests that LCRAC shows promise as a therapeutic agent for enhancing cognitive function and alleviating depressive-like symptoms in MCI without evident toxicity, warranting further clinical investigation.