[Effect of Rheum palmatum decoction on increasing intelligence].

OBJECTIVE

To observe the nootropic effect of Rheum palmatum decoction in mice.

METHODS

Step-down test.

RESULTS

Rheum palmatum decoction could increase learning and memory ability of old mice and also improve the impairments of memory acquisition, memory consolidation and memory retrieval induced by scopalamine, NaNO2 and 40% EtOH respectively in mice.

CONCLUSIONS

Rheum palmatum decoction contains the substances of increasing intelligence which may be substantial basis of the decoctions mainly containing Rheum palmatum theraping aphasia from apoplexy, senile dysmnesis, sequel from brain trauma, etc.