Alzheimer's is a disease of progressive loss of memory, diminished cognitive ability and agitated moods. Decreased levels of the neurotransmitter acetylcholine, and the presence of protein deposits and tangles are the observable culprits. Replenishing acetylcholine levels has led to limited direct benefits, however concurrent neuroprotective effects from activating the acetylcholine system produce encouraging results. Herbs that have been used for centuries to mitigate the symptoms of this disorder of the aging process are finding support in some research trials.
Herbs That Have Cholinergic Effects
Bacopa monnieri (Brahmi), an ayurvedic herb; Salvia offinalis (Sage); and Huperzine A, an extract of moss that has been used in Chinese medicine for centuries, have been found to suppress acetylcholinesterase, the enzyme that breaks down acetylcholine. European herbs that have been studied for their potential contribution to Alzheimer's prevention and treatment include Melissa officinalis (lemon balm), Artemisia absinthium (wormwood) and Angelica officinalis (garden angelica). These herbs work indirectly to enhance acetylcholine effects via their affinity for certain receptors in the cholinergic system.
Herbs That Reduce Protein Deposits in the Brain
Coffee drinkers will be pleased about a study conducted by the Byrd Alzheimer's Institute that revealed that caffeine lowers levels of beta-amyloid protein, one of two proteins associated with neuronal destruction in Alzheimer's. Other herbs with anti-beta-amyloid effects include Zingiber officianale (ginger), Curcuma aromatica, gingko, Polygonatum (King Solomon's seal) brahmi, and Cinnamum cassia (Chinese cinnamon).
The tangling of tau proteins, which are important structural proteins within neurons, leads to cell death. Berberine, an extract of certain Chinese herbs, and cinnamon extract have been found to prevent and even reverse the tangling of tau protein.
Other Neuroprotective Effects
Antioxidant activity keeps all cells healthy and functioning optimally. Herbs that have particular antioxidant capacity in the brain include Bacopa monnieri, which inhibits lipid peroxidation; huperzine A; and several of the most widely used culinary herbs, such as oregano, rosemary, thyme and mint.
The ability to relieve the agitation that often accompanies Alzheimer's earns some herbs a valuable place in the protocol and creates an environment in the brain that is more conducive to cognition. Included in this list are Melissa officinalis, which has sedative and anti-stress properties, and Salvia officinalis, which is mood enhancing. Bacopa monnieri stimulates GABA, a primary inhibitory neurotransmitter, leading to calmer brain function and an increase in the brain's ability to learn, remember and adapt.
