Evaluating the Cognitive, Oxidative Stress, and Histological Effects of Aqueous Extract of the Stem Bark of <i>Boswellia dalzielii</i> in the Prefrontal Cortex of Adult Wistar Rats

Abstract

Introduction: The Frankincense tree (Boswellia dalzielii) is traditionally utilized for its therapeutic properties, particularly in treating pain, neuro-inflammation, and nervous disorders. Its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects have been documented. Aim: This study aimed to evaluate the effects of the aqueous extract of the stem bark of B. dalzielii on the prefrontal cortex and cognition in adult male Wistar rats. Method: Twenty-four male Wistar rats were randomly assigned to four groups: Group I (Control) received 2 ml/kg body weight of distilled water, while Groups II, III, and IV received 300, 600, and 900 mg/kg body weight of B. dalzielii, respectively, for 21 days. Short-term memory was assessed using the Y-maze test. Following euthanasia, one hemisphere of the brain was analyzed for oxidative stress markers: superoxide dismutase (SOD) and malondialdehyde (MDA). While the other hemisphere was fixed in 10% formal saline, processed, and stained with Hematoxylin and Eosin (H&E) for histological evaluation. The administration of B. dalzielii resulted in a decrease in percentage alternation in the final trial for the 300 mg/kg and 900 mg/kg groups, and a non-significant increase in the 600 mg/kg group. Histological findings revealed no observable changes in the pyramidal cells of layers III and V of the prefrontal cortex across all groups. Notably, a significant increase in MDA levels was recorded at 600 mg/kg and 900 mg/kg doses, alongside a dose-dependent significant decrease in SOD levels compared to the control. Conclusion: The study suggests that B. dalzielii induces oxidative stress without significant adverse effects on short-term memory or the histoarchitectural features of the prefrontal cortex at the tested doses.