ABSTRACT

Cognition is defined as the process by which an individual organizes information. This includes acquiring information; selecting, representing and retaining information; and using it to guide behavior. Cognitive impairment denotes trouble in remembering, learning new things, concentrating, or making decisions that affect everyday life. Cognitive impairment ranges from mild to severe. Population ageing is defined as the increased proportion of older persons in the population and is one of the major problems of this century. Ageing is a dynamic process, determined by the relative size of the younger and older in a population at different moments in time. Dementia in general denotes the decline in mental ability severe enough to interface with daily life. With the growing ageing population, prevention and treatment of cognitive impairment in the elderly has assumed increasing importance. Herbal approach is an alternative treatment for cognitive and memory impairments.