Persicaria minor (biokesum®) ameliorates cognitive dysfunction in chronic cerebral hypoperfusion- induced rats

Vascular dementia (VaD) is the second most common cause of dementia, succeeding over Alzheimer’s disease (AD) in the elderly, and is expected to double every 10-15 years. Chronic cerebral hypoperfusion (CCH) resulting from diverse cerebral vascular pathologies is a major cause of VaD. However, effective therapeutic approaches to cure VaD are still missing. The latest trends are seeing a shift in consumer preference to natural therapy for health and wellness with a high degree of convenience. Persicaria minor, commonly referred to as ‘Kesum’ in Malaysia is known for its potent antioxidant, anti-inflammation, anti-acetylcholinesterase, and cognitive- enhancing effects, which are beneficial in preventing aging and oxidative stress-related disease. However, the behavioral effect of P. minor in enhancing cognitive functions, especially following ischemic conditions, remains unknown. The present study evaluates the neuroprotective effects of a standardised aqueous extract of P. minor (Biokesum®) in CCH-induced rats. A permanent bilateral occlusion of common carotid artery (PBOCCA) surgery was performed to develop the CCH model in rats. The effects of P. minor (100, 200, and 300 mg/kg; orally) on motor and cognitive functions were evaluated using a series of behavioral tests. The behavioral assessment results have demonstrated that P. minor improves both short- and long-term recognition and spatial memories without affecting the motor functions of the PBOCCA rats. The present findings suggest the potential of P. minor in enhancing cognitive deterioration in CCH-induced rats.