2 Biblical Miracle Herbs Now Shown to Help Alzheimer's
Alzheimer's disease is the most common form of dementia, affecting memory and cognitive processes in the brain. Over 5 million Americans currently live with Alzheimer's, which is the sixth leading cause of death in the United States.
As scientists continue to search for a cure for this deadly brain disorder, some researchers are taking a second look at traditional healing herbs dating back to Biblical times.
One such herb is sage, most often used today as a spice to flavor foods.
Due to the many uses of sage in folk medicine, its botanical name Salvia derives from the Latin word "salvere," meaning "to be saved." Ancient healers used sage not only to improve memory and brain function, but also for such diverse conditions as heart blockages, infertility, and extending longevity, among others.
Sage is also known as the Seven-Candle Plant because, when pressed flat, the sage plant takes the shape of the seven-branched candlestick or menorah, the important Jewish symbol described in the book of Exodus.
At last, modern-day science is confirming what healers in Biblical times already knew. In fact, here are two contemporary studies which document the potential benefits of sage in the treatment of Alzheimer's disease:
A double-blind, randomized, and placebo-controlled trial reported in the Journal of Clinical Pharmacy and Therapeutics found that Salvia officinalis boosted cognitive function and demonstrated effectiveness in the management of mild to moderate Alzheimer's.
Additionally, a study reported in the Journal of Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics demonstrated the nerve cell-protective effect of sage against damage linked to the abnormal amyloid proteins found in those with Alzheimer's. Researchers believe that the compound rosmarinic acid may contribute to the beneficial effects of sage.
Rosmarinic acid displays antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, as well as the ability to stop nerve cell death.
Sage is a sister herb to rosemary, another culinary herb which also has numerous health benefits dating back to Biblical times.
Rosemary is known as the "herb of remembrance" and is the plant that once sheltered the Virgin Mary in her flight to Egypt. As a Biblical healing plant, it has long been used to enhance memory as well as lessen heart palpitations, increase energy, cure cataracts, and aid many other health problems.
Rosemary contains chemical compounds that prevent the loss of acetylcholine, crucial for thinking and reasoning. Those with Alzheimer's are often deficient in acetylcholine.
A recent animal study done at the Saint Louis University School of Medicine demonstrated that extracts of rosemary improved learning and memory and reduced oxidative stress, a hallmark of age-related decline.
Rosemary contains an ingredient known as carnosic acid, which helps protect brain cells from damage. Research reported in Cell Journal demonstrated that carnosic acid helps prevent nerve cell degeneration.
As traditional healing herbs, both sage and rosemary were most often used as medicinal teas.
Please note that the use of herbs such as sage and rosemary for healing should not be considered a substitute for proper medical treatment.
Disclaimer: All information and results stated in this article are for informational purposes only. The information is not specific medical advice for any individual. The content of this article should not substitute medical advice from a health professional. If you have a health problem, speak to your doctor or a health professional immediately about your condition.