Antidepressant-Like Behavioral and Spatial Memory Effects in Peruvian Red Maca (Lepidium meyenii)-Treated Rats

Introduction: Lepidium meyenii, known with the vernacular name of “Maca”, is a Brassicaceae family that has been widely used by Peruvian traditional medicine in cases of sexual dysfunction, memory loss, and several other diseases and pathologies. Objetive: The aim of the study was to test the potential effects of aqueous extract of Red Maca (AQ-RM) on antidepressant-like behavioral in male rats and spatial memory in ovariectomized (OVX) rats. Methods: Forced swimming test was used to examine the potential antidepressant AQ-RM activity in male rats. Fluoxetine and amitryptiline were included as reference drugs. Morris Water Maze test was employed to examine the effect of AQ-RM on spatial memory in ovariectomized (OVX) rats. Such effects were compared to exogenous estradiol administration. The potential role of oxidative stress on spatial memory loss was assessed by measuring malondialdehyde (MDA) levels in rats brain homogenates. Results: AQ-RM enhances swimming and climbing activities while reducing the time of immobility in male rats. Meanwhile, it prevents the decrease in the time spent in the target quadrant and displays higher values in the number of crossings in OVX-rats as compared to OVX-control rats. MDA levels in brain homogenates were decreased in OVX-rats receiving AQ-RM. Conclusion: Oral administration of AQ-RM has anti-depressive application in male rats; and increases the ability of learning and memory in OVX rats.