In this study, in vitro evaluation of cholinesterase inhibitory (ChEI) activity of various plants including betel nuts (Areca catechu L.), clove buds (Syzygium aromaticum L.), aerial parts of dodder (Cuscuta chinensis Lam.), common polypody rhizomes (Polypodium vulgare L.) and turpeth roots (Ipomoea turpethum R. Br.) which were recommended for the treatment of AD symptoms in Iranian Traditional Medicine (ITM) is reported. Among them, aqueous extract of A. catechu L. was found as the most potent anti-AChE (IC50 = 32.00 μg/mL) and anti-BChE (IC50 = 48.81 ± 0.1200 μg/mL) agent.
Keywords: A. catechu; C. chinensis; Cholinesterase inhibitors; I. turpethum; Iranian traditional medicine; P. vulgare; S. aromaticum.