Alzheimer's disease is a common form of dementia that affects millions of Americans. It occurs when the brain cells that produce neurotransmitters, which are brain chemicals that carry messages that help a person think and remember, start to die off. Symptoms of the disease include difficulty concentrating, memory problems, agitation and impaired movement. Although there is no cure for Alzheimer's, a number of drugs help slow disease progression and ease symptoms. Some herbs may help to improve cognitive function and may be helpful for Alzheimer's sufferers. Evidence to prove they are effective is limited. Get medical advice before using herbal supplements.
Huperzine A
Huperzine A is chemical from the plant Huperzia serrata, which may improve memory. An analysis of clinical data trial data published in the 2008 "Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews" found that huperzine A seems to improve general cognitive function and behavioral disturbances in patients with Alzheimer's. However, the authors, J. Li and colleagues, conclude that there is still inadequate evidence to make any recommendation for its use. Short-term Huperzine A use seems safe, but side effects may include nausea, vomiting, blurred vision, restlessness and loss of appetite. Use of this herb is contraindicated in a number of conditions including seizure disorders and lung conditions. Get medical advice before taking it.
Bacopa
The herb bacopa may improve brain function and cognitive ability. Although a study by S. Raghav and colleagues published in the October 2006 issue of the "Indian Journal of Psychiatry" found that bacopa produced a significant improvement in mental control and logical memory in patients with age-associated memory impairment, whether it can improve dementia or Alzheimer's remains unclear. Bacopa, also known as brahmi, appears to be free of adverse effects.
American Ginseng
American ginseng improves blood flow to the brain and may be beneficial for people with Alzheimer's. Although studies examining its role in the treatment of Alzheimer's and dementia are lacking, research by S.Q. Hu and colleagues published in the September 2008 issue of "Journal of Chinese Medicinal Materials" found that this herb protects cells that are destroyed in patients with Alzheimer's. Short-term use of American ginseng is likely safe, but side effects may include diarrhea, headache and insomnia.
Preventive Measures
Eating healthily may help to prevent Alzheimer's disease and eating more fatty fish, such as tuna and salmon, may be linked with a lower risk of dementia. Taking regular exercise, keeping mentally active and keeping your blood pressure within a normal range may also help lower your risk of developing Alzheimer's.
References
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Alzheimer's Disease
- PubMed.gov: Huperzine A for Alzheimer's Disease
- RxList: Huperzine A
- PubMed.gov: Randomized Controlled Trial of standardized Bacopa Monniera Extract in Age-Associated Memory Impairment
- Drugs.com: Brahmi
- PubMed.gov: Neuroprotective Effects of Water Extracts of American Ginseng on SH-SY5Y Cells Apoptosis Induced by Abeta25-35
