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Alzheimer's: Chinese herb shown to 'increase memory retention' and cerebral blood flow

Alzheimer's disease is a common type of dementia that triggers a gradual decline in intellectual function. It is among the world's most impactful diseases, destroying the lives of both victims and their loved ones. Although the precise cause of the disease is unknown, researchers have unearthed a number of clues to help treat symptoms. In China, certain herbs have been approved as a drug for the treatment of dementia without unpleasant side effects.

There are currently several FDA-approved drugs for the treatment of Alzheimer's disease, but the two most commonly used are donepezil and tacrine.

Both drugs work by blocking the action of an enzyme that breaks down acetylcholine (AChE), a neurotransmitter involved in learning and memory.

By increasing levels of this brain chemical, the medications are able to improve cognitive function in some people suffering from cognitive decline.

However, the side effects of these drugs, such as vomiting, nausea and diarrhoea, have limited their safe use by the wider population.

The key mechanism of these drugs, which is the inhibition of acetylcholinesterase, has a crucial role in neurodegenerative conditions like Alzheimer's disease.

One herbal remedy that has proven effective in achieving this is the Chinese herb Qiang ceng ta.

According to Science Direct, the plant - also known as Huperzine A - has been in use for over 1,000 years for the treatment of several conditions.

Neuroscientists have proved that with Huperzine A, the inhibition activity of AChE is more effective than certain drugs.

As a result, the drug is officially used as a "memory-enhancing dietary supplement in the United States," adds Science Direct.

Prescriptions for Nutritional Healing explains: "The Chinese herb qian ceng ta increases memory retention. This is the same herb that is the source of Huperzine A, and it is also known as club moss.

"Pure and standardised extracts of this herb have been shown to increase clearheadedness, language, and more in a significant percentage of subjects with Alzheimer's disease.

"It is a potent blocker of acetylcholinesterase, an enzyme that regulates the activity of acetylcholine, which is an important chemical of the brain that maintains healthy learning and memory functions."