Substance in herbs and teas good for the brain

Researchers found that apigenin, a compound found in parsley, thyme, chamomile, and red pepper strengthens the connections between brain cells.

Brazilian researchers from D’Or Institute for Research and Education (IDOR), Federal University of Rio de Janeiro (UFRJ) and Federal University of Bahia (UFBA) observed that just by applying apigenin to human stem cells in a dish they become neurons after 25 days — an effect they would not see without the substance. Moreover, the neurons that were formed made stronger and sophisticated connections among themselves after being treated with this natural compound.

“Strong connections between neurons are crucial for good brain function, memory consolidation and learning,” says neuroscientist from IDOR and UFRJ Stevens Rehen, leader author of the paper published in Advances in Regenerative Biology.

The research team conducted by Rehen demonstrated that apigenin works by binding to estrogen receptors, which affect the development, maturation, function, and plasticity of the nervous system. This group of hormones is known to delay the onset of psychiatric and neurodegenerative disorders such as schizophrenia, depression, Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s disease. However, the use of estrogen-based therapies is limited by the increased risk of estrogen-dependent tumors and cardiovascular problems.

Researchers believe apigenin can be used as an alternative approach on future treatments for neurodegenerative diseases as well as in neuronal differentiation strategies in laboratory.

“We show a new path for new studies with this substance,” points out Rehen. “Moreover, flavonoids are present at high amounts in some foods and we can speculate that a diet rich in flavonoids may influence the formation of neurons and the way they communicate within the brain.”

Category: Top Story, Wellness and Complementary Therapies