Abstract

Objective: To ascertain the nootropic potential (memory enhancing effects) of the leaves of Alternanthera sessilis (Amaranthaceae) and Clerodendrum infortunatum (Verbenaceae) using rectangular maze and Y maze (interoceptive behavioral models) Methods: Methanolic extracts of leaves Alternanthera sessilis and Clerodendrum infortunatum dosed at 100 and 200 mg/kg each were administered to adult Swiss albino Wistar mice and the effect on acquisition, retention and retrieval of spatial recognition memory was determined. Bacopa monniera extract was used as the standard drug while Scopolamine hydrobromide served as the amnestic agent. Results: The higher doses of both the extracts exhibited a more promising nootropic potential. Maximal response was observed in the 200 mg/kg dose of Clerodendrum infortunatum methanolic extract, which closely approximated the results for the standard drug Brahmi. Both the higher doses elicited greater responses in both the models studied and were comparable to that achieved with the standard drug. Conclusions: The methanolic extracts of Clerodendrum infortunatum afforded greater memory enhancing effects in comparison to Alternanthera sessilis extract, the higher dose evoking pronounced alteration behavior and better learning assessments.

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