Effects of ethanolic extract of Artemisia persica on scopolamine-induced cognitive impairment and anxiety in rats

Background: Artemisia persica is used as an antiseptic, carminative, appetizer, antiparasitic, and antipyretic agent as well as to relieve fascial pains, and in the past, was used to relieve neuropathic pain and facilitate uterine contractions during childbirth. Objective: The aim of this study was to investigate the antioxidant potential and effects of A. persica on scopolamine-induced cognitive impairments and anxiety. Methods: In this experimental study, 50 male rats were randomly divided into 5 groups of 10 each, including control group, scopolamine (0.7 mg/kg, intraperitoneal injection) group, and three groups receiving scopolamine and ethanolic Artemisia persica extract (100, 200, and 400 mg/kg). After three weeks of treatment, behavioral tests including passive avoidance memory, plus maze test, and rotarod test were conducted. The level of malondialdehyde and the antioxidant capacity of the serum and brain in the rats were measured. Results: Treatment with A. persica extract at 100, 200, and 400 mg/kg in rats receiving scopolamine caused a significant increase in secondary latency in shuttle Box test (P < 0.01). Treatment of rats receiving scopolamine with A. persica extract at 100, 200, and 400 mg/kg significantly decreased the time elapsed in closed arms and significantly increased the time elapsed in the open arms in plus maze test (P < 0.05). Conclusion: The results of this study indicate that A. persica can act as a potent neuropharmacologic agent against cognitive impairment by modulating cholinergic activity and neuritis in the rat hippocampus.