Objective To compare the effects and mechanisms of the ginsenosides Rg1, Rb1 and Rg1+Rb1 on improving spatial and non-spatial learning memory in a scopolamine-induced mouse model for cognitive impairment. Methods A scopolamine-induced cognitive impairment mouse model was established, and the effects of ginsenoside Rg1 or Rb1(60 μmol / kg) and Rg1+Rb1(30 μmol / kg each combined) on behaviors were observed by using object cognition experiments. Liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry-mass spectrometry will be used to determine neurotransmitter levels in mice, while colorimetric methods will be used to determine oxidative stress levels. Results Compared with the control group, the model mice showed severe impairment on both short-term spatial learning memory and non-spatial learning memory (P<0.001). Huperzine A and ginsenoside Rg1, Rb1 and Rg1+Rb1 administration significantly reversed the short- term non-spatial learning memory impairment in the model mice, but the effect of ginsenoside Rg1+Rb1 on improving short- term spatial learning memory was weaker than that of ginsenoside Rb1 (P<0.01). Hippocampal Ach, 5-HT and Glu levels were decreased in the model mice compared with controls. Administration of Huperzine A or ginsenosides Rg1, Rb1 and Rg1+Rb1 significantly increased hippocampal Ach, 5-HT and Glu levels in the model mice. Serum oxidative stress levels were significantly increased in the model mice compared with controls. Administration of ginsenoside Rg1, Rb1 and Rg1+ Rb1 significantly increased serum SOD, CAT and GSH activity and significantly decreased MDA levels in the model mice. Although ginsenoside Rg1 + Rb1 was weaker than ginsenoside Rb1 in regulating GSH activity ( P< 0. 01, P< 0. 05), ginsenoside Rg1+Rb1 was stronger than ginsenoside Rg1 and Rb1 in the ability to regulate MDA. Conclusion Although half dosage combination of ginsenoside Rg1 +Rb1 exhibited decline in the ability to improve spatial short-term learning memory. However, ginsenosides Rg1, Rb1 and Rg1+Rb1 were comparable in their ability to improve short-term non-spatial learning memory impairment. The differences may be related to the dose and the ability of different ginsenosides on the regulation of neurotransmitters and oxidative stress levels in the brain.