Herbs and Spices for Dementia
Turmeric
You’ve probably heard about the numerous benefits of turmeric and its main component, curcumin. These benefits include helping to prevent dementia and even assisting current dementia patients. Interestingly, the elderly in India experience significantly lower rates of Alzheimer’s and dementia compared to those in America. Over 1,000 published studies on both humans and animals have explored the antioxidant benefits of turmeric and curcumin.
Research from Duke University indicates that turmeric extracts can block the formation of beta-amyloid, which is responsible for the plaques that impair brain function in Alzheimer’s disease. Additionally, authors Shrikant Mishra and Kalpana Palanivelu, in the journal Annals of Indian Academy of Neurology, suggest that curcumin could be a promising aid for Alzheimer’s disease, potentially helping to reduce dementia.
Ginkgo
The ginkgo tree, the world’s oldest living tree species, offers more than just shade. In over 50 double-blind trials, ginkgo leaf has shown its usefulness for patients with cerebral vascular insufficiency, which includes symptoms like short-term memory loss. Because ginkgo enhances circulation and is rich in antioxidants, many alternative medicine specialists recommend it for the early stages of Alzheimer’s, potentially helping to prevent the onset of dementia.
Salvia
Modern Chinese medicine frequently uses salvia for its ability to improve microcirculation, dilate blood vessels, and slow blood clotting. Unlike many allopathic medications that come with side effects like depression and agitation, salvia actually has calming effects.
Ginseng
Ginseng has been used in China for centuries to help prevent disease and aging. Nearly a decade ago, a group of Chinese researchers reported a study involving 40 patients to the American Stroke Association. In this study, 25 out of 40 patients with mild to moderate vascular dementia (resulting from a series of small strokes) received ginseng extract. After 12 weeks, these patients showed significant memory improvement compared to the 15-member control group. More recently, Korean researchers at Kyung Hee University found that black ginseng protects against ischemia-induced neuronal and cognitive impairment, suggesting it might be useful for vascular dementia.
Chinese Club Moss
This herb is commonly found in Chinese research facilities, primarily for its compound huperzine A. In a 1995 study published in the Beijing-based journal Chung Kuo Yao Li Hsueh Pao, researchers administered 200 mcg of huperzine A to 50 patients over 8 weeks. More than half of these patients showed improved memory and cognition based on the Wechsler memory scale and Hasegawa dementia scale.
Extra Tip
Certified organic virgin cold-pressed coconut oil is also very effective in alleviating the symptoms of dementia. Many people report good results with a dosage of 1 tablespoon taken 2-3 times daily.
