Originally published March 29 2005
Chinese herbs may help dementia, say Australian researchers
by Mike Adams, the Health Ranger, NaturalNews Editor
Sydney researchers will test the effectiveness of a blend of three common Chinese herbs against memory loss and decreased brain functionality associated with old age. Pre-clinical animal testing indicates that results can include increased blood circulation to the brain, reduced cholesterol levels, and direct brain tissue stimulation for better mental performance. The Access Economics report predicts that over 200,000 people will live with dementia by the end of 2005.
Australian scientists are recruiting dementia sufferers for a trial into whether Chinese herbs can slow the progress of the disease.
The University of Western Sydney researchers want to test whether a concoction of three common Chinese herbs, including gingko, can improve brain function and slow memory loss.
About 80 vascular dementia sufferers aged 60 and over are needed for the study, at Sydney's Bankstown Hospital, which will require them to take a capsule three times a day for four months.
They will also undergo monthly memory testing and other performance tests to gauge the progression of the disease.
Dennis Chang, a senior lecturer at the Centre for Complementary Medicine Research (CompleMED), said pre-clinical testing in animals suggested the herbs could boost memory and brain function.
"There are several potential mechanisms through experimental data suggesting these herbs can increase blood circulation to the brain, reduce cholesterol levels and directly stimulate the brain tissue for a better mental performance," Dr Chang said.
Disturbing figures released earlier this week by Alzheimer's Australia found about 1000 Australians will be diagnosed with dementia every week this year.
More than 200,000 people would be living with the incurable disease by the end of 2005, the Access Economics report predicted.
Dr Chang said vascular dementia, associated with problems in the circulation of blood to the brain, accounted for 15 to 20 per cent of all dementia cases.
"We are cautiously optimistic this study will provide us with some much-needed clinical evidence about a possible new treatment option for vascular dementia that may ease some of the burden on the community and the health system," he said.
The trial is being carried out in partnership with the China Academy of Traditional Chinese Medicine at Xi Yuan Hospital in Beijing.
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