Abstract

Joffa P. P. K.*, Pughikumo D. T., Kiridi E. G., Odepeli J. W. and Dr. Erigbali P. P.

ABSTRACT

Moringa oleifera has been reported for increasing rate of use among individuals as an alternative natural remedy to improve learning and memory especially in geriatrics characterized by cognitive decline. This study was aimed at assessing whether sudden cessation of its prolonged administration is associated with withdrawal effects. Mice were divided into 4 groups with five per group; 1st is normal and 2nd is positive control, while 3rd and 4th were the tests. Mice in group 2 were induced with a dosage of 3-Nitroprionic Acid (15mg/kg) likewise group 3 and 4. Mice in group 3 were further treated with a dosage of M. oleifera leaf extract (300mg/kg) for 6weeks without withdrawal while mice in group 4 were treated with same dosage of the extract for 6weeks and withdrawn for 3 days. Morris water maze and Novel Object Recognition Test were used to assess each group of mice for learning and memory. Statistical analysis showed no significant difference among the test groups, whereas there was difference in the test groups compared to the positive control and normal control at p<0.05. The order of learning and memory assessed was Group 1>group 2<group 3=4. In conclusion, M. oleifera improved learning and memory following chemical stress, was not associated with withdrawal effects.