Evaluating effectiveness of Areca catechu extract on Rat

Chewing of betel nut (Areca Catechu nut) is a common practice in most part of India. Areca nut contains several pharmacologically active components. Arecoline is one of such component which is an potent muscarinic agonist. Present study was carried out to evaluate effect of Arecoline on various CNS functions of rat viz learning and memory, locomotor activity and anxiety. since betel nuts are consumed in two different forms; wet form and dry form, extracts were prepared for both the forms of betel nuts and results were compared with control group of animals.Phytochemical studies of extracts including HPLC was also carried to confirm presence of Arecoline. Positive results were obtained for all the activity tested.