Background: Heavy metals such as lead are ubiquitous elements at exposure causing deleterious
effects on the brain and leading to neurodegenerative diseases. Aim: In this investigation, the
neurotherapeutic effects of ethanol extract of Curcuma longa (EECl) against lead‑induced hippocampal
neurotoxicity in rats were examined. Biochemical examination for antioxidant enzyme activity and
lipid peroxide level (malondialdehyde [MDA], superoxide dismutase [SOD], and glutathione [GSH])
was evaluated, the Barnes maze for learning and memory, and histological analysis (H and E stain)
for general histoarchitectural features to investigate the neurotherapeutic characteristics of EECl.
Materials and Methods: Six groups totalling 36 rats were created (n = 6). In the first group, rats
received distilled water (2 mg/kg), in the second, lead acetate (LA) (120 mg/kg), in the third, ascorbic
acid (100 mg/kg), and the 4th, 5th, and 6th groups, rats received LA (120 mg/kg) and EECl (375 mg/kg,
750 mg/kg, and 1500 mg/kg, respectively) for 14 days. Results: A significant learning and memory
deficit was seen in the LA‑treated group’s results, but a significant improvement was seen in the
EECl‑treated group. Increased oxidative stress was seen in the LA‑treated group, as evidenced by
an increase in MDA levels and a decrease in antioxidant enzymes (SOD and GSH). A decline in
MDA levels and an increase in SOD and GSH activity was the evidence of the ameliorative effects of
EECl treatment. Cytoarchitectural distortions relative to the control were observed with the LA‑treated
group. Mild distortion was however detected with EECl treatment. Conclusion: EECl has possible
neurotherapeutic properties against LA‑induced pathological changes in the hippocampus of Wistar
rats. EECl may have neuroprotective effects against degenerative alterations brought on by LA.