Alzheimers disease
Alzheimers disease is a progressive degenerative neurological disorder that eventually leads to problems with memory, thinking and reasoning as well as motor skills. This disease progresses rapidly in some people and more slowly in others. All people who develop Alzheimer's will eventually need complete care as they slowly lose brain function. One thing that most Alzheimer's patients have in common is an abnormal amount of aluminum in their brains. Aluminum inhibits the use of vitamin B12, the lack of which creates a protein that hardens the nerves.
Symptoms
Early symptoms of Alzheimer's include loss of concentration, forgetfulness, unexplained weight loss, loss of motor skills, incontinence, depression, irritability, apathy and changes in sexuality. Later symptoms may include a difficulty in finding the right words, lack of understanding words spoken to them, reduced or irrelevant conversation, impaired movement and coordination, impaired sense of smell and severe weight loss.
Causes
Doctors don't really understand what exactly causes Alzheimers disease, although there are theories that part of it may be genetics, part may be the environment and part may be what a person chooses to do or not do in their life. Currently, it is known that age is the single largest risk factor. There is also growing evidence that maintaining physical, mental and social activities may help prevent Alzheimer's.
Cautions
Medical care is necessary as Alzheimers disease progresses and patients will need someone to care for them as they lose the ability to do simple self-care tasks.
Herbal Treatments
Internal Applications
- Ginkgo biloba – well-known for improving the memory, ginkgo is also used to prevent senility, dizziness and hearing and vision problems. It also helps the circulatory system flow so the organs get enough oxygen. Ginkgo supplements can be added to the daily diet.
- Kelp – this herb is full of minerals, which help the sensory nerves, the brain and spinal tissue. It also increases the thyroid's function and prevents the absorption of metals. Cook with kelp for the best results.
- Gotu kola – this herb is known to improve brain function and improve the memory. It is also recommended to treat dementia. Supplements are readily available at health food stores.
- Snowdrop – this herb, also known as Galanthus wornorii, contains the compound galantamine, which has been found to rescue brain cells from damage. This compound can be found as a supplement.
- Periwinkle – vinpocetine is derived from Vinca minor, or periwinkle plant. This herb enhances nerve impulse transmission and strengthens the memory and cognition. This compound can also be found as a supplement.
- Club Moss – this herb contains huperzine A, which improves memory, cognitive function and behavior. This compound can be found as a supplement.
- Combination formula – some patients have had some success in taking an herbal formula containing Melissa officinalis (lemon balm), Rosmarinus officinalis (rosemary), Ginkgo biloba (ginkgo), Salvia officinalis (Sage), Centalla asiatica (Gotu kola), Panax ginseng (Korean ginseng), Eleutherococcus senticosus (Siberian ginseng), Thymus vulgaris (thyme), Zingiber officinale (ginger), Avena sativa (oats) and Withania somnifera (ashwagandha). All of these herbs have positive effects on the brain, antioxidant qualities or memory-enhancing effects. Supplements containing all or some of these herbs can be found in most health food stores.
- Butcher's Broom – this herb stimulates the circulation, which may help slow down the progress of Alzheimer's disease. Supplements of butcher's broom are easily available.