Alzheimer’s disease is a form of dementia which worsens with time. It affects thinking, memory, and behavior. As symptoms develop and progress, it becomes more and more difficult to perform activities of daily living. Doctors treating Alzheimer’s patients usually prescribe a course of several medications that manage symptoms. Although allopathic medications are effective, they often have unwanted side effects. As a result, many individuals are turning to alternative medicines to manage the disease.
The following is a list of alternate medicines used to treat Alzheimer’s:
Tramiprosate
This is a modified version of taurine, which is a naturally occurring amino acid in sea weed. Amino acids are precursors to proteins, which are the body’s building blocks. Tramiprosate is being marketed as ViviMind, a medical food for Alzheimer’s. Currently, this treatment is undergoing intensive clinical research.
Omega 3 Fatty Acids
This is a type of polyunsaturated fat, which has demonstrated its ability in reducing the risk of stroke and heart disease. Currently, two types of omega 3s, eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docasahexaneoic acid (DHA) are supported by the Food and Drug Administration of the United States in having health benefits. The current recommended intake for therapeutic purposes is no more than 2 grams in supplement form.
Research has found a link between a high consumption of omega 3s and a reduced risk of cognitive decline and dementia in Alzheimer’s patients. DHA is present in fatty membranes surrounding nerve cells, and especially at junctions where neurons connect to one another. Since omega 3 has an anti-inflammatory effect on the blood vessels and heart, it is possible for it to protect and support nerve cells as well.
Huperzine A
This is a moss extract that is frequently used in Chinese medicine. It demonstrates similar properties to a class of FDA-approved medications called cholinesterase inhibitors which are frequently used in treating Alzheimer’s.
Only few studies have been conducted with Huperzine A, the results have not demonstrated anything substantial. Current dietary supplements that are available should be taken with great caution and under the supervision of a physician, as it can have serious interactions when taken with prescription Alzheimer’s medications.
Ginkgo Biloba
The extract of this plant has both anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. It regulates neurotransmitter function in the brain and protects cell membranes. Ginkgo Biloba has been used in traditional Chinese Medicine and Europe for many years. It appears to improve cognitive symptoms that are associated with several neurological conditions.
Coral Calcium
This is a type of calcium carbonate that is derived from living organisms that once resided in the coral reefs. It is different from ordinary calcium in that there are also traces of additional minerals in these shells. Coral calcium is often recommended as a supplement to be taken in managing Alzheimer’s symptoms.
Alzheimer’s disease is an irreversible disease of old age which worsens with time. Although there are alternative medicines that one can take to manage their symptoms, they should not be taken without the advice of a physician.