Issue link: http://cp.revolio.com/i/602310
via a mechanism distinct from its antioxidant properties. Ginkgo also appears to protect against Alzheimer's disease by inhibiting the formation of amyloid fibrils. Finally, a review of six studies found that ginkgo benefits cognition and psychopathological symptoms, with no evidence of negative side effects. 7. Curcumin Curcumin is derived from the Curcuma longa (turmeric) plant. Many studies have suggested that curcumin may be an effective therapy for Alzheimer's because it exerts neuroprotective actions through numerous pathways including inhibition of amyloid beta, clearance of existing amyloid beta, anti-inflammatory effects, antioxidant activity, delayed degradation of neurons, and chelation (binding) of copper and iron, among others. Curcumin has been found to reduce cognitive dysfunction, neural synaptic damage, amyloid plaque deposition, and oxidative damage. It has also been found to modulate the levels of cytokines in brain neurons. The anti-inflammatory effect of curcumin appears to result from a reduction of nuclear factor- kappaB, a nuclear transcription factor that regulates many genes involved in cytokine production. Curcumin's ability to chelate toxic metals such as iron and copper and reduce their levels may also help prevent amyloid aggregation. By inhibiting interaction with heavy metals (e.g., cadmium and lead), curcumin may reduce cerebral deregulation. Laboratory studies also suggest that curcumin is more effective at inhibiting accumulation of amyloid beta in animal brains than the over-the-counter NSAIDs ibuprofen and naproxen. A clinical trial found that doses of regular curcumin ranging from 1 to 4 grams daily were well tolerated and