Propolis, a cure for Alzheimer's?
Sister Carole from the Little Sisters of the Poor nursing home in Lambeth, London has found that Propolis can be beneficial for Alzheimer's sufferers. One of her patients had a recurring chest problem which was not responding with antibiotics, so she gave the patient Propolis which is known to have anti-biotic properties. Within a few days, the chest problem was gone, but more than that. Sister Carole had noticed that there had been a "remarkable" improvement in the patient generally. The patient was an Alzheimer sufferer and after the Propolis treatment, she became more alert, more interested in what was going on around her and even began to communicate and interact with the nuns and other patients.
Subsequently, Sister Carole tried Propolis on twelve other patients suffering from Alzheimer's at St. James' Home in Newcastle, all of whom showed similar improvements in their condition.
"I am not saying that I have found a cure, but the results have been extraordinary", said Sister Carole. "The improvement in the patients condition was gradual and positive. I think that it (Propolis) could help people with Alzheimer's. Nature gives us everything we need to cure ourselves, but often we forget this and look for cures in the wrong place".
(Source Daily Mail March 24 1998)
How fish oils help stave off dementia
Fish oil may protect against Alzheimer's by combating harmful brain plaques which lead to the disease.
Research shows that an omega 3 fatty acid found in fish oil boosts production of a beneficial protein that can stop the plaques developing.
Although previous studies have shown that fish oils - taken by pill or in the diet - may delay or even prevent Alzheimer's, it is the first time scientists have identified why they have a beneficial effect.
The study, published yesterday in the Journal of Neuroscience, revealed the omega 3 fatty acid DHA ( docosahexaenoic acid) increases the production of LR11, a protein found at reduced levels in Alzheimer's patients.
LR11 has already been shown to destroy the brain plaques which kill brain cells.
Salmon, mackerel and trout contain the highest levels of fatty acids, he added, but it was not yet certain how much needed to be eaten to stave off dementia.
Alzheimer's is the most common cause of dementia, affecting over 700,000 Britons.
About 500 new cases are diagnosed every day as more people live longer.
(Source Daily Mail December 27 2007)