To investigate the influence of electroacupuncture (EA) on learning and memory in vascular dementia (VD) rats.Methods:70 SD rats were randomly divided into 5 groups: normal control group (n=10)

false operation group (n=10)

VD model group (n=15)

VD model + EA group (n=17) and VD model + medication group (n=18).VD model was established by using a modified Pulsinelli's 4 vessel occlusion method. And then all the rats accepted Morris water maze test and accorded with our experimental demands. In rats of EA group

“Baihui" (DU 20)and “Dachangshu" (GB 14) were punctured and stimulated with an EA Therapeutic Apparatus. SD rats in medication group were administered with nimotop. Results:After generation of VD

the learning and memory capability of rats in VD model

VD model + EA and VD model + medication groups declined apparently in comparison with that of control group and false operation group. However

comparison between VD model group and EA+VD model group or VD + medication group showed that both EA and medication could obviously improve the learning and memory capability (P<0.01); and the effect of EA was superior to that of medication. Conclusion: EA can improve the learning and memory ability in VD rats.