Efficacy of Kushmand Avaleha in slow learners as a memory enhancer for improving IQ: A randomized placebo-controlled clinical study

Background: Slow learners are students with an intellectual quotient level between 70 to 81 range and are characterized by difficulty in learning, writing, grasping, and memory. Medhya Rasayana is a polyherbal formulation in Ayurveda called a brain tonic that helps enhance brain functions and cognitive ability. Benincasa hispida is one of the ingredients used in the Medhya Rasayana. Kushmanda Avaleha, which has the same effect as the Medhya Rasayana in enhancing memory, is made of B. hispid. The present study aims to evaluate the efficacy of Kushmanda Avaleha’s in improving the IQ of students categorized as slow learners. Methods: Students were divided into two groups (groups A and B). Group A (trial group) students were given Kushmanda Avaleha, and Group B students (control group) were given a placebo. The students were selected based on their last year's academic performance. Results: The results revealed that group A students administered Kushmanda Avaleha showed improved IQ and academic performance after treatment. A higher statistical significance was observed within Group A before and after treatment (P<0.001). However, group B students provided with a placebo did not show improvement in their IQ or academic performance. The significance between groups A and B was also observed after treatment. Conclusion: The study's findings revealed that Kushmanda Avaleha can increase students' IQ levels by enhancing their memory power, thus suggesting that it can be used as a therapeutic agent for enhancing cognitive ability.