Alzheimer's characterized by a degeneration of nerve terminals in the brain. More specifically, neurofibrils (tiny conductive pathways) become tangled, resulting in incorrect messages being transmitted. When this occurs, it affects a person's memory and one tends to become forgetful.

Additionally, ongoing scientific research reveals that the brains of Alzheimer patients contain abnormally high levels of aluminum. Dr. Daniel Perl was one of the first to discover aluminum in the brains of Alzheimer's patients; and in 1985, he connected high levels of aluminum in drinking water with different forms of senile dementia, including Alzheimer's and Parkinson's disorders.

Aluminum is a mineral that contains an enzyme which inhibits the brain from using Vitamin B12, which prevents it from making acetylcholine even when there is choline in the diet. A lack of acetylcholine allows the brain to accumulate a nerve hardening protein called beta-amyloid. Scientists are still researching this area, for some feel aluminum is a very important link to Alzheimer's.

There are various supplements one can take to somewhat alleviate the symptoms: B Complex, bioflavonoids, Coenzyme Q10 (COQ10), germanium, lecithin, multivitamins B6, C, E and B12, selenium and potassium.

There are three herbs that may also alleviate some of these symptoms. As you can see, they all stimulate the circulatory and the nervous systems in the body. Let's examine these three herbs closely.

Butcher's Broom

Butcher's Broom contains anti-inflammatory properties and has the ability to improve the structure of the veins. This herb is good for treating hemorrhoids, varicose veins, poor circulation, leg cramps, phlebitis and thrombosis. In addition, Butcher's Broom is also good for inflammation of the kidneys and bladder.

Ginkgo Biloba

Chinese herbalists have recommended this herb for coughs, asthma and allergies. Ginkgo exerts a positive effect on the body's vascular system (including the blood vessels that delivers blood and oxygen to various organ systems).

This herb also helps prevent blood clots and can treat hearing and vision problems, dizziness, senility, heart and kidney ailments, and depression among other things.

Kelp

Kelp is a sea vegetable high in mineral content, especially iodine and potassium. This vegetable can help increase thyroid function and prevent absorption of radiation and heavy metals. It is beneficial for sensory nerves, the brain, spinal tissues and membranes. Kelp can also treat hair loss, ulcers, arteries, and nails. Kelp should be used in small amounts if one has high blood pressure or if one is sensitive to salt.

Both Ginkgo and Butcher's Broom can be taken in capsulated form. Kelp is best used when cooking, as the combination of the vegetable with one's food is a sure way to allow the body to take advantage of its good mineral content.

This article was excerpted from

Electrolytes: The Spark of Life
by Gillian V. Martlew.

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About The Author 

The above was excerpted with permission from "Your Choice" published by MM Unlimited. "Your Choice" is a computer database program which contains over 100 book references on herbs, supplements minerals and vitamins. For more information, contact IAM Unlimited, 3823 Tamiami Trail East, Naples FL 33962. Other information regarding aluminum is excerpted with permission from "Electrolytes, The Spark Of Life" by Gillian Martlew, N.D., ?1994, published by Nature's Publishing Ltd.