Originally published September 25 2010
The Hormone Pregnenolone is a Memory Enhancer and Healer
by Fleur Hupston
(NaturalNews) Pregnenolone is a hormone produced by the glands, the liver, skin and retina and in the brain itself. Pregnenolone is made from cholesterol in the cells of both the adrenal gland and the central nervous system. Studies have identified pregnenolone as one of the most important role-players in keeping the brain young.
History of Pregnenolone
Pregnenolone was identified in the 1940s. It proved to be an excellent anti-inflammatory for conditions such as arthritis and certain allergies. Further research found that pregnenolone could increase the productivity levels and reduce the stress of factory workers.
Research into cortisol at around the same time meant that pregnenolone "fell out of fashion", as it were, by the scientific community. It could not be patented by large pharmaceutical companies and sold for profit. Synthetic versions of hormones such as estrogen and testosterone were patented and became widely used.
The result of this meant that, despite having recognized health benefits, pregnenolone did not become as popular as it might otherwise have been and its use was effectively phased out.
How Pregnenolone Boosts Memory
As we age, the body produces less pregnenolone. This results in the memory being affected; this is why individuals have short term memory problems such as forgetting where the car keys are or being unable to remember names or shopping list items.
Pregnenolone works by keeping the brain clear and sharp by blocking GABA, which is a neurotransmitter that works by inhibiting the firing of neurons in the brain. It reduces general brain activity and prevents the brain from "overheating". Higher levels of GABA, associated with aging, can make the brain sluggish.
Pregnenolone also stimulates the formation of new brain cells. According to one study, researchers found that there was a 55% increase in cell growth in the brain after pregnenolone had been used; growth continued after just one treatment. Studies undertaken on old, memory-impaired rats proved that recall problems were reversed after pregnenolone was given to them.
Other Benefits of Pregnenolone
According to studies, pregnenolone is effective in fighting arthritis; elevating mood; healing spinal cord injuries; overcoming dependency on chemicals and treating mental health disorders, like phobias and schizophrenia.
Caution and Warnings
According to Antiagingsystems.com, "Because Pregnenolone has antagonistic effects on what are known as GABA receptors in the central nervous system, Pregnenolone supplementation may cause problems in people with a history of seizures".
Pregnenolone is available without a prescription in creams or capsules. However, hormones should be administered under the supervision of a qualified medical professional. Talk to your practitioner to determine which dosage is right for you.
[Editor`s Note: NaturalNews is strongly against the use of all forms of animal testing. We fully support implementation of humane medical experimentation that promotes the health and wellbeing of all living creatures.]
Sources:
Mayo W, George O. Individual differences in cognitive aging: implications of pregnenolone sulfate. Prog Neurobio. Sept 2003;71(1) 43 - 48
http://www.articlesbase.com/health-articles/...
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/9405705
http://www.antiaging-systems.com/PRG-182/pre...
http://www.anxiety-and-depression-solutions....
About the author
Fleur Hupston is a professional freelance writer. She is passionate about natural, healthy living and is currently studying to be a naturopath. She divides her time between writing for Natural News and various other sites, home schooling her children and studying part time.
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