The influence of kolanut (Cola nitida) on exploratory behaviour in rats

The effect of oral administration of an aqueous extract of kolanut (Cola nitida) on exploration of a Y-maze was investigated in rats. The number of entries made into all the arms of the maze and the frequency of rearing following administration of the extract was determined over 20 min, and repeated 24 h later without administration of the extract. Both the extract (400 and 800 mg/kg) and caffeine (15 mg/kg) caused significant increases in the number of entries, but reduced the frequency of rearing. The extract did not significantly reduce the number of entries after 24 h. It is suggested that kolanut stimulates exploratory locomotor activity due to its caffeine content, but does not enhance habituation.