Alzheimer's disease is a progressive neurodegenerative disease that causes memory loss, concentration problems and personality changes. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, it is the most common form of dementia and affects around 5 million Americans. There is no cure for Alzheimer's; however, there are a number of medications that can help slow disease progression and improve mental function. Some herbs may help to improve cognitive function and memory, but there is little scientific evidence that they can prevent Alzheimer's. Always check with your physician before trying any herbal remedies.
Examples and Administration
Some herbs may boost memory and cognitive ability, such as vinpocetine and huperzine A. Vinpocetine is believed to increase the flow of blood to the brain and is available in capsules and tablets. Huperzine A is made from the Chinese club moss Huperzia serrata and acts as a cholinesterase inhibitor. It causes an increase in the levels of acetylcholine, which is a neurotransmitter. If you are already taking a cholinesterase inhibitor, the Alzheimer's Association does not recommend taking this supplement. Always check with your doctor before taking any alternative medicines.
Efficacy
The University of Maryland Medical Center notes that vinpocetine may be beneficial for patients with Alzheimer's, but adds that most of the studies examining its role in the treatment of dementia have been of poor quality. In addition, an analysis of clinical trial data published in 2003 in the "Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews" adds that although the theory behind vinpocetine use is interesting, evidence to show it can benefit patients with dementia-type diseases is inconclusive. In the 2008 Cochrane Reviews by J. Li and colleagues, huperzine A was reported to show some improvement in the general cognitive function of 454 patients who participated in six trials. However, the authors concluded that larger studies are needed before huperzine A could be recommended as a treatment.
Safety
RxList notes that vinpocetine is likely safe, but it may cause side effects, including nausea, headache, dizziness and facial flushing. Do not use vinpocetine if you have a bleeding disorder or if you are taking anticoagulants as it may increase the risk of bleeding.
The site also presents that taking huperzine A seems to be safe when used for less than one month. Side effects reported include nausea, diarrhea, vomiting, sweating, blurred vision, slurred speech, restlessness, loss of appetite, cramping, incontinence, high blood pressure and slowed heart rate. RxList reports that Huperzine A should not be taken when you are pregnant or breast-feeding; have a heart condition; seizure disorders; digestive tract, urinary or reproductive system blockages; stomach or intestinal ulcers or any lung conditions.
Preventative Measures
The University of Maryland Medical Center states that it is unclear whether Alzheimer's can be prevented but believes diet and exercise may help. The Medical Center states that eating fatty fish, including tuna and mackerel, may lower the risk of developing dementia. Keeping your blood pressure within the normal range and participating in a variety of social and mental activities may also help stave off Alzheimer's disease.
References
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Alzheimer's Disease
- PubMed: Vinpocetine for Cognitive Impairment and Dementia
- "Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews 2003, Issue 1"; Vinpocetine for Cognitive
- RxList: Vinpocectine
- Mayo Clinic: Alzheimer's Disease: Huperzine A
- "Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews 2008, Issue 2"; Huperzine A for Alzheimer's Disease; J. Li, et al; 2008
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