Memory and cognitive decline are hallmark features of Alzheimer’s disease, and current synthetic cholinesterase inhibitors raise tolerability and toxicity concerns, prompting interest in plant-derived alternatives. This study evaluated the nootropic potential of the hydroalcoholic fruit extract of Annona reticulata in scopolamine-induced cognitive impairment. Thirty-six male Wistar mice were divided into six groups (n=6): normal control, piracetam (400 mg/kg), scopolamine (1 mg/kg, i.p.), and three extract doses (100, 200, 400 mg/kg, p.o.) with scopolamine. Spatial learning and memory were assessed using the Morris Water Maze, followed by hippocampal histopathology; data were analyzed by ANOVA (mean ± SEM). The extract produced significant, dose-dependent improvement in escape latency and target-quadrant occupancy, with the 400 mg/kg dose approaching piracetam-treated performance and preserving hippocampal architecture. These findings indicate that A. reticulata fruit extract possesses notable cognitive-enhancing and neuroprotective activity, warranting further mechanistic investigation.
Keywords: Annona reticulata, Nootropic activity, Cognitive impairment, Scopolamine, Morris water maze, Neuroprotection.
Publication Date: 2026-06-14