Researchers believe they’ve pinpointed certain herbal compounds that might aid in alleviating or even preventing Alzheimer’s disease, although there are some important details to consider before anyone dashes to grab herbs from their kitchen.
A recent study in the Journal Antioxidants from the Scripps Research Institute highlighted a compound named carnosinic acid, which is abundant in herbs like rosemary and sage. This compound showed promise as a potential treatment for neurodegenerative issues, particularly Alzheimer’s.
The researchers noted that carnosic acid has “notable antioxidants” and possesses anti-inflammatory characteristics. Piu Banerjee, a postdoctoral associate at Scripps, along with board-certified neurologist Dr. Stuart Lipton, shared insights on these findings.
In their research, they observed that administering this compound to mice exhibiting advanced Alzheimer’s-like symptoms led to significant improvements in neuron count and synaptic connections in the brain. They noted, rather optimistically, that the inflammation typically caused by existing anti-amyloid therapies was reduced, and the mice showed better learning and memory behavior.
“From our animal studies, we are cautiously optimistic about the potential success in human trials,” they remarked. Interestingly, carnosic acid is initially inactive—a “prodrug”—until it is activated within the body by oxidative and inflammatory stress, specifically targeting cells under these stressors without harming healthy brain cells, as Banerjee explained.
However, researchers caution that cooking with sage and rosemary won’t replicate the effects observed in their studies. Banerjee emphasized that it is crucial; you cannot safely consume enough of these herbs to achieve the same therapeutic outcomes found with the new drug.
Experts agree that while carnosic acid might help alleviate inflammation found in aging brains, important safety concerns remain. Courtney Croske, director of scientific engagement at the Alzheimer’s Association, expressed that findings from a mouse model are valuable but won’t suffice alone. “Human studies in broader populations are essential for validation,” she added, urging that rosemary and sage should not be recommended as standard treatments for Alzheimer’s at this time.
Dr. Lee Murray, a neurologist, echoed these sentiments, asserting that there isn’t enough clinical proof to advocate for these herbs as common therapies for dementia. He also pointed out that the findings provide encouragement, paving the way for further research into alternative treatments.
While the study, which received partial funding from the National Institutes of Health, has its limitations, researchers like Banerjee remain hopeful. If these compounds prove effective in human trials, it could represent a significant advancement for individuals battling Alzheimer’s.
