Thai Traditional Medicine Advocates Gotu Kola and Phrommi to Combat Alzheimer's Disease

Alzheimer's disease is a grave concern for the elderly, and each year, on September 21, the world observes World Alzheimer's Day to raise awareness of this debilitating condition. 

  

Thai traditional medicine adopts a proactive approach, aiming to prevent and mitigate conditions that may lead to dementia. Gotu Kola and Phrommi are championed for their potential to enhance memory and thwart the onset of Alzheimer's disease. These herbal remedies not only boast scientific research validating their benefits but also hold promise due  to their ease of cultivation and accessibility. They present an exciting avenue for further research and development into herbal products that could potentially generate income. 

  

Alzheimer's disease manifests through various cognitive and emotional symptoms, including memory lapses, distorted perception, cognitive decline, anxiety, mood swings, and more. 

Although Alzheimer's has no known cure, therapeutic interventions like memory training, brain exercises, and medication can decelerate its progression. 

 

Gotu Kola, also known as Phak Nok in Thai traditional medicine, is renowned for its ability to relieve heat, quench thirst, combat fatigue, and alleviate bruising. Research suggests that Gotu Kola can enhance memory and promote relaxation. It can be incorporated into one's diet in the form of salads, chili paste, juices, or utilized in the production of herbal products. 

Phrommi contains steroidal saponins like bacoside A and bacoside B, proven to bolster memory and learning, protect brain cells, and reduce anxiety. It features prominently in Ayurvedic medicine but should be consumed in moderation. 

Dr. Kwanchai advocates maintaining overall health within normal limits. This entails controlling chronic diseases, fostering a cheerful mental outlook, avoiding risk factors such as smoking and excessive alcohol consumption, maintaining a healthy body weight, regular exercise, proper hydration, and ensuring adequate rest. 

Seeking Guidance: Those intrigued by Thai traditional medicine or considering herbal remedies should seek counsel from traditional Thai doctors available at government healthcare facilities throughout the country. Alternatively, they can directly contact the Department of Thai Traditional and Alternative Medicine via telephone at 0 2149 5678 or through online channels on Facebook and Line (@DTAM). 

It is crucial to bear in mind that while traditional herbal remedies hold promise, consultation with healthcare professionals remains imperative, particularly if underlying medical conditions or concerns about herb interactions arise. The Department's commitment to supporting the elderly population's cognitive health is a vital step in the fight against Alzheimer's disease