Abstract: The present invention relates to a composition for promoting memory or learning ability and to a composition for preventing and treating cognitive impairment, which comprise one, two or more plant extracts selected from the group consisting of Artemisia apiaceae extract, Illicium verum extract and Lepidium apefalum extract. The present invention has the effect of inhibiting neural cell damage, especially, neural cells of the basal part of the cerebrum by inhibiting acetylcholinesterase activity and through antioxidative activity (for example, inhibiting the generation of oxidative reactive species) and affinity for an NMDA receptor. The compositions of the present invention may have the effect of not only promoting memory or learning ability by protecting neural cells and preventing damage to neural cells but also of preventing and treating diseases caused by cognitive impairment.