The Synergistic Effects of Zingiber officinale Extract and Vitamin E on Alzheimer Disease

Abstract

Ginger, scientifically known as Zingiber officinale and belonging to the Zingiberaceae family, is a spice widely used in traditional medicine. It has been recognized for its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, as well as its ability to enhance memory and improve blood circulation. This study aimed to investigate the synergistic effects of methanolic extract from Zingiber officinale and vitamin E as a potential treatment for Alzheimer's disease The study involved extracting Zingiber officinale using methanol and determining the maximum tolerated dose in rats. Alzheimer's disease was induced in rats by administering aluminum chloride for 30 days. The rats were divided into different groups: Group I received the extract, Group II received vitamin E, Group III received a combination of the extract and vitamin E, and Group IV received only the extract vehicle Dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO). To assess the rats' cognitive and behavioral functions, a maze test was conducted before and after the treatment once a week. Acetylcholinesterase levels, a diagnostic marker for Alzheimer's disease, were measured in the blood serum. Finally, immunohistochemistry analysis was performed on brain tissue samples. The maze test results revealed that rats with induced Alzheimer's disease showed improved recognition of food within five minutes after 15 days of treatment. Acetylcholinesterase levels were significantly higher in Group I compared to Groups II and III, where cholinesterase levels were significantly lower. In conclusion, this study demonstrated that the combination of Zingiber officinale extract and vitamin E had a positive synergistic effect.