Prophylactic Effect of Hypericum Perforatum L. Extract in Scopolamine Rat Model of Cognitive Dysfunction

The primary goal of the present study aimed to evaluate the prophylactic effect of Hypericum Perforatum L. extract on memory dysfunction induced by scopolamine in adult male albino rats (Rattus norvegicus Berkenout). Rats administered daily P.O Hypericum Perforatum L. extract (350 mg/kg) for two, four, eight weeks and the group of rats at the end of each interval intraperitoneally administered scopolamine (0.4 mg/kg). Scopolamine administration significantly increased the latency time in Morris Water Maze (MWM) task and significantly increased acetylcholinesterase (AChE) activity and significantly decreased noradrenaline, dopamine and serotonin levels in cortex and hippocampus and serum thyroid function (T3, T4 and TSH levels). In groups administered Hypericum Perforatum L. pre-scopolamine injection recorded significant decrease in the latency time in MWM, decrease in ACHE activity and significant increase in the monoamines in cortex and hippocampus and serum T3, T4 and TSH levels. The study highlights the prophylactic efficacy of the neuro-protective effect of Hypericum Perforatum L. extract against scopolamine-induced cognitive impairment.