This popular herb could help prevent Alzheimer’s disease, new study finds

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herb garden in a wooden planter


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herb garden in a wooden planter

More than 6 million U.S. residents have Alzheimer’s disease, with the prevalence of degenerative disease increasing 145% between 2000 and 2019 alone, according to the Alzheimer’s Association. While there is no definitive cure for Alzheimer’s disease, which affects one in nine adults over the age of 65, a new study suggests that a popular herb could help fight this devastating disease … basil.

A new study published in The frontiers of the neurosciences of aging reveals that fenchol, a natural compound found in basil, may have a protective effect against Alzheimer’s disease.

RELATED: This herb can block fat, new study finds

Researchers at the University of South Florida Health (USF Health) found that among a group of 15 compounds studied, fenchol was the most effective at binding and activating the free fatty acid receptor 2 (FFAR2), which is expressed on neurons. in the brain. In animal models, fenchol has been shown to increase FFAR2 signaling, thereby reducing levels of beta-amyloid (Aβ), a protein linked to the development of Alzheimer’s disease, decreasing rates of neuronal death and reducing the number senescent neuronal cells, AKA “zombies”, commonly found in the brains of patients with Alzheimer’s disease.



The diagnosis of Alzheimer's disease written on a clipboard


© Provided by Eat This, Not That!
The diagnosis of Alzheimer’s disease written on a clipboard

“Fenchol actually affects the two related mechanisms of senescence and proteolysis,” explained the lead author of the study. Hariom Yadav, Ph.D., professor of neurosurgery and brain repair at USF Health Morsani College of Medicine, in a statement. “It reduces the formation of half-dead zombie neuronal cells and also increases the breakdown of (non-functional) Aβ, so that amyloid protein is cleared from the brain much faster.”

Gallery: That One Thing Could Predict Dementia, Study Finds (ETNT Health)

a woman talking on a cell phone: 924 respondents reported this symptom The long-term effects of COVID-19 are unknown because the virus is so new, but researchers are seeing some neurological effects in patients who have recovered. Studies in Wuhan analyzed these neurological disorders and found that 40% of patients analyzed experienced confusion and disturbances in consciousness. This is commonly referred to as "brain fog" and many patients express this feeling when recovering from coronavirus.

However, that doesn’t mean you should start planning your entire menu around pesto and Caprese salads right away. Yadav’s team says more research is needed to determine the most effective way to deliver doses of fenchol to those seeking protection against cognitive decline.

“We also want to know if a potent dose of basil or fenchol would be a faster way to get the compound into the brain,” Yadav explained.

For now, however, it certainly doesn’t hurt to enjoy basil with your meals if you want a little brain stimulation – the results of a study published in Ancient science of life found that mice given basil extract exhibited better memory retention, also suggesting potential human health applications.

For easier ways to make your meals healthier and tastier, check out these 17 Herbs To Try For Mind And Body Benefits, According To Science, And For The Latest Healthy Eating News Delivered In Your Box. reception, subscribe to our newsletter!

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