Title : Trends in herbal medicine use and perceived cognitive benefits in alzheimer’s and mild cognitive impairment: A cross-sectional study
Abstract:
Background: Traditional medicine systems, such as traditional Chienese Medicine and Ayurveda, have long contributeed multi-target herbal formulations against cognitive decline and Alzheimer’s disease (AD). Panax ginseng, Bacopa monnieri, Ginkgo biloba and Huperzia serrata, as well as multi-herb formulations, have anti-inflammatory, anti-amyloid, clolinesterase-inhibiting and antioxidant properties that may help improve cognitive function. Nevertheless, real-world patterns of herbal use, perceived benefits and saftely data are still scare despite an increasing number of randomized trials and meta-analyses.
Objective: To assess self-reported efficacy and herb-drug co-usage patterns in a clinical environment; to characterize the patterns, frequency and correlates of herbal medicine use for cognitive impairment (MCI).
Methods: 200 participants in cross-sectional observational study who visit neurology or geriatric clinics. A standardized questionnaire about demographics, diagnosis, length of sickness, type of herbal product, duration of usage, sources, perceived benefits and side effects will be filled out by participants. Medical records will provide information on cognitive scores (MMSE, MoCA) and concurrent drugs. Herbal use determinants and correlations with cognitive outcomes or the reporting af adverse events will be found using descriptive statistics and logistic regression analyses. The classification of herbal substances will be based on established ethnopharmacological classifications.
Results: It is expected that between 40 - 60 percent of individuals will report utilizing herbal remedies most commonly multi-herb TCM combos, Bacopa monnieri, or Ginkgo biloba. Hogher levels of education and concurrent use of conventional pharmaceuticals are predicted to be correlated with herbal use and few significant adverse events have been observed.
Conclusion: This study will offer practical insights into the frequently, justification and safety of herbal medicine usage among people suffering from dementia and cognitive impairment. Clinicians and legislators may find it useful to prioritize future controlled trials of potential traditional agents, identify herb-drug interaction hazards and encourage safe integration.
