Angelica, scientific name Angelica sinensis, is a herbaceous plant that has shown important anticancer, antioxidant and immunomodulating properties. And from today we know that angelica is also neuroprotective, proving to be able to counteract memory loss in the case of Alzheimer's and the development of this neurodegeneration through multiple mechanisms. This is what emerges from a very recent scientific research published in the journal Current Medical Science (Wang et al, Current Medical Science, 2022).
The benefits of angelica
In a previous study performed by the same research group, it had already emerged that angelica is able to improve memory and learning in the case of Alzheimer's. However, it was not possible to understand the mechanisms behind this beneficial action. The study we are talking about today has instead allowed us to understand how this remedy can protect the brain.
Angelica and Alzheimer
The study was carried out in the laboratory on a population of animals with neurodegeneration. Well, it turned out that the intake of angelica extracts allowed, in four weeks, to improve memory and cognitive function. Not only that, scientists have been able to observe that the angelica acts through different mechanisms. In fact, the extracts of this plant reduce the formation of beta amyloid aggregates, which are the hallmark of Alzheimer's and also its main cause, together with neuroinflammation. Not only that, angelica increases cholinergic levels, which are the neurons that secrete acetylcholine, which is a neurotransmitter deficient in those with Alzheimer's. In addition, angelica has also been shown to increase the production of superoxide dismutase, which is an antioxidant capable of improving cognitive function by counteracting oxidative brain damage.
Warnings
Angelica can be purchased as a supplement in pharmacies and herbalists. Do not take during pregnancy and breastfeeding, ask your doctor for advice if you are already taking medications, such as anticoagulants, as interactions may occur. Also pay attention to sun exposure as angelica can be photosensitizing.
