LAUSR

Purpose: To ascertain if there is any scientific evidence for the folkloric use of Lavandula stoechas as a nootropic substance for memory-related disorders. Methods: Aqueous and n-hexane fractions of methanol extract of aerial parts of L. stoechas were used to explore their anti-amnesic activity. Male albino mice weighing 25 30 g were organized in ten groups (G-I to G-X) and treated for seven days. On 7th and 8th day, behavioral studies were conducted using elevated plus maze, hole-board and light-dark paradigms. Furthermore, biochemical studies were performed on brain homogenates of mice. Results: Half-maximal inhibitory concentration (IC50) values for aqueous and n-hexane fractions of L. stoechas were recorded as 35.14 and 357.42 μg/mL respectively, as compared to the standard, ascorbic acid (51.39 μg/mL). Behavioral test results indicate that the aqueous fraction showed significant (p < 0.001) build-up of memory in mice, compared to n-hexane fraction. Similarly, the aqueous fraction significantly (p < 0.001) reduced the level of acetylcholinesterase and malondialdehyde as well as elevation of natural antioxidants, viz, superoxide dismutase, catalase and glutathione in brain tissues. Conclusion: The aqueous fraction of L. stoechas is a memory-enhancing agent. Its antioxidant activity prevents the loss of memory by providing defense against neurodegeneration.