An open-label, randomized study to unfold the potential of Ficus benghalensis in modulation of cognitive impairment using diabetic (Streptozotocin induced) rats

Material and Methods: Wistar rats of either sex weighing 150-200 g were randomized into ten groups often each (five groups of diabetic rats and five groups of non-diabetic rats) where one group of diabetic and one group of non-diabetic rats each received F. benghalensis dose I (50 mg/kg), F. benghalensis dose II (100 mg/kg), Piracetam (200 mg/kg) and Glimepiride (0.5 mg/kg), and one group of diabetic rats and one group of non-diabetic rats served as the control group. [...]it can be concluded that F benghalensis might be effective in alleviating the behavioral and biochemical changes in diabetes mellitus. According to Unani system, its latex is aphrodisiac, tonic, decreases inflammations and is also useful in piles, gonorrhea, etc. [14] In the view of hypoglycemic action of F benghalensis and the possible neurobiological changes induced by pathogenesis of diabetes, the present study intends to evaluate, the effect of F. benghalensis on the parameters of cognitive behavior in diabetic rats. [...]to compare the effect with Piracetam, a nootropic agent and Glimepiride - an oral hypoglycemic agent,[15] on cognitive function and AChE levels in brain of diabetic rats.