A growing body of evidence indicates that oxidative stress, free radicals, beta-amyloid plaque, metal toxicity, and abnormal inflammatory reactions contribute to AD pathology. Due to the various effects of turmeric, including antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and lipophilic (an affinity for fats) properties, decreased amyloid plaque, metal-chelation, and decreased microglia formation, the overall memory in AD patients using turmeric in studies has improved.
In one 2013 study in particular2, older rats experienced a "remarkable restoration" of brain function when given turmeric, especially the ability of vessels in the brain to relax and allow blood to flow freely. The treated rats also experienced a reduction in reactive oxygen species (ROS), which is associated with decreased oxidative stress and cell damage.
The effects of turmeric on AD were also demonstrated in a 2012 case study3 on three patients with "very severe" manifestations of the disease: irritability, agitation, anxiety, apathy, incontinence, and wonderings. The patients were given 764 of turmeric every day for 12 weeks. The results were that "behavioral symptoms improved remarkably as a result of the turmeric treatment." In two of the tree patients, "they came to recognize their family within 1 year treatment."
Turmeric is a common spice that can be added to food. However, therapeutic levels such as the ones used in the studies are easier to obtain via turmeric-containing food supplements. Additional good news is that even higher levels in supplement form are not usually expensive.
1. Ann Indian Acad Neurol. 2008 Jan-Mar; 11(1): 13–19.
2. Cell Physiol Biochem. 2013;32(5):1167-77. doi: 10.1159/000354516. Epub 2013 Nov 11.
3. Ayu. 2012 Oct-Dec; 33(4): 499–504
