Latest news with #Antioxidants
Yahoo
29-06-2025
- Health
- Yahoo
Dementia risk 'can be reduced' by herb that's easy to grow in kitchens and gardens
Dementia affects millions of people worldwide, and the numbers are increasing. There is currently an estimated 982,000 people with dementia in the UK, and it is predicted that 1.4 million people will be living with dementia by 2040, according to the Alzheimer's Society. However, new research has emerged that suggests that a common herb that's easy to grow in your kitchen or garden can actually reduce the risk of getting the brain disorder. Rich in natural compounds that support memory and protect brain cells, this everyday plant is gaining attention as a simple yet powerful ally in the fight against dementia. The secret weapon: rosemary. The herb has long been associated with sharper memory and improved mental clarity, and even appeared in Shakespeare's Hamlet, where Ophelia stated: "There's rosemary, that's for remembrance." READ MORE: Scientist reveals that eating this one fruit a day will lower inflammation READ MORE: Early dementia symptom that could show up when you're on holiday But now modern science is exploring whether rosemary can be linked to aiding Alzheimer's disease. In a 2025 study published in Antioxidants, researchers explored the benefits of carnosic acid, which is a natural compound found in rosemary and sage. Carnosic acid is known for its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which activate the body's natural defence enzymes. However, "pure carnosic acid" is too unstable for direct use as a drug, so a more stable form called diAcCA was developed, which converts to carnosic acid in the gut, reported Scripps Research. Research showed "that when diAcCA was used to treat mouse models of Alzheimer's disease, it achieved therapeutic doses of carnosic acid in the brain and led to enhanced memory and synaptic density, or more synapses (representing the connections between nerve cells), in the brain. "Because the decline of neuronal synapses is also closely correlated to dementia in Alzheimer's disease, this approach could counteract the progression of cognitive decline." A health expert at the Independent also shared that rosemary can enhance mental clarity by boosting blood flow to the brain, delivering more oxygen and nutrients. Its calming aroma has also been linked to reduced anxiety and better sleep, both key for focus and memory. Another study conducted by a team at Northumbria University found a link between rosemary oil, lavender oil and memory performance. A doctor who participated in the study spoke to the BBC and shared: "It turns out that there are compounds in rosemary oil that may be responsible for changes in memory performance. "One of them is called 1,8-cineole - as well as smelling wonderful (if you like that sort of thing) it may act in the same way as the drugs licensed to treat dementia, causing an increase in a neurotransmitter called acetylcholine." The compound 1,8-cineole helps preserve acetylcholine, a vital brain chemical for learning and memory. By protecting this neurotransmitter, rosemary may support cognitive performance, even when we age. The doctor concluded: "The implications of this kind of research are huge, but they don't mean you need to spend your days smelling of rosemary and your night sleeping on a pillow of lavender. "The effects were measurable but modest, and they give us a clue that further research into some of the chemicals in essential oils may yield therapeutics and contribute to our understanding of memory and brain function."
Time of India
29-06-2025
- Health
- Time of India
Alzheimer's disease: Common herbs used in the kitchen could help slow down the progression of the disease, study finds
Imagine a common sprig of rosemary or sage gracing your roast chicken! Now, imagine that this modest herb may harbor a powerful ally in the fight against Alzheimer's. Yes, that's right. Tired of too many ads? go ad free now Recent breakthroughs spotlight a compound called carnosic acid, an antioxidant and anti-inflammatory powerhouse present in these kitchen staples. In its natural form, carnosic acid is unstable, yet innovative science has transformed it into a stabilized prodrug, diAcCA, capable of crossing the blood-brain barrier and selectively activating in damaged, inflamed brain cells. While still in the pre-clinical stages, this discovery lights a spark of hope, hinting that everyday herbs might play a role in slowing, or even preventing, cognitive decline. What does the study say? In a recent study published in the journal Antioxidants, researchers from the Scripps Research Institute discovered a compound called carnosic acid – found in rosemary and sage – with impressive antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. They suggest that this compound could be beneficial for neurodegenerative disorders like Alzheimer's. Researchers Piu Banerjee and Dr. Stuart Lipton shared their findings with Fox News Digital. They said, 'In this study, we observed that administering this drug to mice that had advanced Alzheimer's-like disease significantly improved the number of neurons, as well as the number of synapses or connections between the brain cells.' They also noted, 'It reduced inflammation caused by current anti-amyloid antibody therapies and improved learning and memory behavior in the mice that received the drug.' Banerjee explained that carnosic acid is a 'prodrug,' meaning it's inactive until it enters the body, where it gets activated by oxidative and inflammatory stress. Tired of too many ads? go ad free now 'It specifically targets cells undergoing oxidative and inflammatory stress, without affecting healthy, normal brain cells,' she added. This makes it a safer option for treatment. The researchers believe carnosic acid might help reduce inflammation in aging brains. However, they urge caution. Courtney Kloske, director of scientific engagement for the Alzheimer's Association, stressed that while studying mice helps us understand the disease, we really need to conduct human studies for a complete picture. 'These findings are intriguing, but more research is needed to see how these compounds affect people living with or at risk for Alzheimer's,' she advised. Banerjee and Lipton also noted that just cooking with sage and rosemary won't deliver the same anti-inflammatory benefits. "Critically, one cannot take sufficient herbs safely to produce the same effect as our new drug,' Banerjee explained. Kloske added, 'At this point, no one should consume these herbs or carnosic acid to prevent or treat Alzheimer's or other cognitive impairments.' Origins and key compound: Carnosic acid in rosemary and sage Rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis) and sage have both storied reputations—ancient scholars hung rosemary in their robes to boost memory. Modern research confirms that carnosic acid, alongside carnosol and rosmarinic acid, provides potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects that can reach the brain. These compounds activate the Nrf2 pathway, which spurs the production of endogenous enzymes that combat oxidative stress – one of Alzheimer's disease's key drivers. From kitchen to Lab: Creating diAcCA Carnosic acid's instability limited its therapeutic potential – until researchers at Scripps created diAcCA, an acetylated prodrug version. When consumed, diAcCA converts into its active form in the gut, crossing into the bloodstream and, crucially, the brain. In mouse models mimicking Alzheimer's (5xFAD strain), three months of diAcCA treatment led to restoration of memory and learning to near-normal levels, increased synaptic density in hippocampal circuits, and reduced neuroinflammation and diminished amyloid-β and phosphorylated tau accumulation. These results were consistent across behavioral tasks, histology, and biochemistry, with no observed toxicity. Mechanisms at work: A multi-front attack diAcCA (and its metabolite carnosic acid) appear to combat Alzheimer's via several reinforcing mechanisms: Antioxidant defense: Activates Nrf2, turning on protective genes that tackle oxidative stress and stabilize cell redox balance. Anti‑inflammatory action: Blocks cytokine release (IL-1β, IL-6, TNF‑α) and inhibits inflammasome activation, reducing harmful microglial activity. Neurotrophic support: Boosts nerve growth factor, BDNF, and synaptic resilience. Cholinergic enhancement: Rosemary's 1,8‑cineole component inhibits acetylcholinesterase, helping sustain acetylcholine levels vital for memory. Reduced neurotoxic proteins: Helps clear amyloid‑β and tau aggregates via synaptic and inflammatory pathways. The future ahead: While diAcCA hasn't yet been tested in people, several encouraging signals emerge: FDA classifies carnosic acid as 'Generally Recognized as Safe', which may speed early‑stage trials. diAcCA appears well tolerated in mice, with even digestive system benefits, while smaller human trials using rosemary/sage extracts showed improved cognitive speed and memory performance in older adults. Meta‑analyses of animal studies reflect moderate‑to‑strong cognitive gains from rosemary extract. Banerjee expressed hope for the future, stating, 'I hope our drug will start human clinical trials soon. If it proves to be effective, it will be a great new drug for those suffering from Alzheimer's. We are cautiously optimistic for its success in human clinical trials!' Reduced risk of Alzheimer's disease linked to target protein for diabetes, as per a study
New York Post
28-06-2025
- Health
- New York Post
This common kitchen herb ingredient could help target or slow Alzheimer's
Experts believe they've identified a chemical compound in certain herbs that could help mitigate or prevent Alzheimer's disease — but before anyone makes a run for the spice rack, there are a few catches. In a study published in the journal Antioxidants earlier this year, researchers from the Scripps Research Institute identified a compound called carnosic acid, which is prevalent in rosemary and sage. Advertisement The compound could prove therapeutic for neurodegenerative disorders, including Alzheimer's disease, the experts concluded. Carnosic acid contains 'striking antioxidant [and] anti-inflammatory properties,' the researchers wrote in the findings. Scripps Research postdoctoral associate Piu Banerjee and board-certified neurologist Dr. Stuart Lipton, based in California, spoke with Fox News Digital about the results. 'In this study, we observed that administering this drug to mice that had advanced Alzheimer's-like disease significantly improved the number of neurons, as well as the number of synapses or connections between the brain cells,' the team said. Advertisement 4 Experts believe they've identified a chemical compound, carnosic acid, in certain herbs like rosemary and sage that could help mitigate or prevent Alzheimer's disease. Brent Hofacker – The experts added, 'It also reduced inflammation that is caused by the current anti-amyloid antibody therapies. We also observed an improvement in the learning and memory behavior of the mice that received the drug.' Banerjee and Lipton also noted that carnosic acid is a 'prodrug,' meaning it's inactive at first — but once it enters the body, it's activated by oxidative and inflammatory stress. 'It specifically targets cells undergoing oxidative and inflammatory stress, without affecting the healthy, normal brain cells,' Banerjee said. Advertisement 'This further makes it a safe option for therapeutics.' The experts agreed that carnosic acid could potentially improve the inflammation that generally occurs in most aging brains. There are cautions, however. Advertisement Courtney Kloske, director of scientific engagement for the Chicago-based Alzheimer's Association, told Fox News Digital that studies based on a mouse model of Alzheimer's can be helpful but are not conclusive. 4 Experts say carnosic acid could improve inflammation occurring in most aging brains. LIGHTFIELD STUDIOS – 'Models are important in helping us understand the basic biology of the disease, but we need human studies in representative populations for ideas to be fully validated,' Kloske said. 'Therefore, while these are intriguing findings, more research is needed to understand the impacts and outcomes of these compounds on people living with, or at risk for, Alzheimer's.' Cooking sage and rosemary won't provide the full anti-inflammatory effects, Banerjee and Lipton stressed. 4 'We need human studies in representative populations for ideas to be fully validated,' Courtney Kloske, director of scientific engagement for the Chicago-based Alzheimer's Association, says about the limitations of the information. – 'Critically, one cannot take sufficient herbs safely to produce the same effect as our new drug,' Banerjee said. The study, funded in part by the National Institutes of Health, did have some limitations, the researchers acknowledged. Advertisement Kloske advised that, at this point, 'no one should consume these herbs (or carnosic acid) to prevent or treat Alzheimer's or other cognitive impairment.' 4 According to Scripps Research postdoctoral associate Piu Banerjee and board-certified neurologist Dr. Stuart Lipton, cooking sage and rosemary won't provide the full anti-inflammatory effects. Ganna – Dr. Lee Murray, a neurologist in Jackson, Tennessee, echoed Kloske's concerns. 'Before patients start incorporating rosemary and sage in every dish they eat, we need to remember these studies are pre-clinical,' Murray told Fox News Digital. Advertisement 'Currently, there is insufficient clinical evidence to recommend rosemary and sage as a standard therapy for Alzheimer's dementia.' Murray, however, said the data 'is encouraging' and opens the door to additional pathways for potential therapeutics. Banerjee said she hopes that 'our drug will start human clinical trials soon.' She added, 'If it proves to be effective, it will be a great new drug for those suffering from Alzheimer's … From the results of our animal studies, we are cautiously optimistic for its success in human clinical trials.'
Yahoo
27-06-2025
- Health
- Yahoo
The Best Anti-Inflammatory Food, According to a Nutritionist
There's been a lot of chatter about inflammation over the past few years. Specifically, chronic inflammation, which research points to for messing with your body's normal functions, potentially increasing your risk for some serious health issues, like heart disease, type 2 diabetes, arthritis, and even certain cancers. Various lifestyle habits contribute to inflammation levels, but if you're looking to tamp down on inflammation in your body, a dietitian reveals the one nut you should be eating: walnuts. Meet the expert: Lauren Manaker M.S., R.D.N., L.D. 'Walnuts are an excellent source of anti-inflammatory nutrients, making them a great addition to a balanced diet. They are the only nut that is considered to be an excellent source of alpha-linolenic acid (ALA) omega-3 fatty acid,' Lauren Manaker, M.S., R.D.N., L.D., previously explained while describing foods that fight inflammation. 'Some data suggest that because of the ALA content, walnuts may have anti-inflammatory effects. Data published in Antioxidants suggests that walnuts also contain several urolithins, which are compounds known for their anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Beyond omega-3s and urolithins, walnuts also contain polyphenols, a type of antioxidant that may combat oxidative stress, which often contributes to chronic inflammation.' While snacking on walnuts has its benefits, if you're truly looking to make some serious strides towards lowering inflammation, you'll want to adjust your eating patterns by opting for an anti-inflammatory diet. The diet involves 'a pattern of eating focused on incorporating nutrient-dense, whole foods that support your body's natural defenses,' according to Manaker. 'This dietary pattern is about abundance—more colorful plants, more healthy fats, and fewer ultra-processed, sugary, and fried foods.' Think: fruits, vegetables, whole grains, nuts, seeds, and fatty fish rich in omega-3s, such as salmon and mackerel. Check out more about combatting inflammation through food in Prevention's 28-day Anti-inflammatory Diet. You Might Also Like Can Apple Cider Vinegar Lead to Weight Loss? Bobbi Brown Shares Her Top Face-Transforming Makeup Tips for Women Over 50
Scotsman
27-06-2025
- Health
- Scotsman
This supplement slows the greying of hair
The supplements came after twenty years of stem-cell research and advanced AI compound analyses | No Credit A biotech startup is excited to announce a new supplement which prevents premature grey hairs today (June 24) - and it's all thanks to ONE ingredient. Sign up to our daily newsletter Sign up Thank you for signing up! Did you know with a Digital Subscription to Edinburgh News, you can get unlimited access to the website including our premium content, as well as benefiting from fewer ads, loyalty rewards and much more. Learn More Sorry, there seem to be some issues. Please try again later. Submitting... HairLabs, based in London, created the supplement, Anti Grey 1.0, after 20 years of stem-cell research. Described as the 'world's first', the daily supplement is engineered to help preserve the melanocyte stem cell (MSC), which is the reservoir that powers natural hair colour. It is distilled into two vegan capsules - powered by the proprietary NooPigment Matrix™ - and can be taken twice a day for those seeking to remain young. The secret ingredient? Luteolin - a natural antioxidant with an anti-greying potency. HairLabs founder and CEO, Arthur Corvin Powells, said:' For the first time ever, there is a breakthrough ingredient that harnesses 20 years of stem-cell science. 'Notably, a 2024 paper in Antioxidants showed Iuteolin maintains endothelin-B signalling between keratinocyte and melanocyte stem cells - exactly the dynamic we have been aiming to amplify.' The first batch of Anti Grey 1.0 has become available at . Users will be able to choose from a one-time order option or a subscription basis. Board-certified techologist, Penny James, said: 'HairLabs offers a smart, evidence-based formula that helps prevent grey hair by targeting stress, nutrient gaps, and oxidative damage. All in two daily capsules.' For more information about the science and what the capsules contain, please visit here.
