According to research performed at the University of Illinois by Dr. Rodney Johnson, who directs the Division of Nutritional Sciences at the University of Illinois[1], peppermint essential oil – a byproduct of the peppermint leaf, aids in the process of inhibiting memory loss. Peppermint, as well as other yellow plants and vegetables containing the compound luteolin – a yellow plant pigment directly inhibits the release of inflammatory molecules in the brain, which otherwise induces age related memory loss. In addition to peppermint, luteolin is also found in peppers, carrots, olives, olive oil, rosemary, celery, oregano, perilla, thyme, and chamomile.
The study found that certain immune cells that reside in your brain and spinal cord, initiate a stream of chemical changes in the brain, especially when an infection is present. The result of the release of these molecules called, cytokines, induce memory loss and depression, with feelings of sleepiness, and loss of appetite. Johnson stated that,
We found previously that during normal aging, microglial cells become dysregulated and begin producing excessive levels of inflammatory cytokines. We think this contributes to cognitive aging and is a predisposing factor for the development of neurodegenerative diseases. When we provided the old mice luteolin in the diet it reduced inflammation in the brain and at the same time restored working memory to what was seen in young cohorts.
When exposed to a bacterial toxin, microglial cells produced inflammatory cytokines that kill neurons. The neurons were able to survive if exposed to luteolin prior to encountering toxins. Basically, as Johnson said, “The neurons survived because the luteolin inhibited the production of neurotoxic inflammatory mediators.” However, they he found no effect on the neurons’ survival by simply exposing them to the luteolin prior to the experiment. Johnson claimed that, the experiments revealed that “luteolin isn’t protecting the neurons directly,” but rather, it only works by protecting the microglial cells.
Johnson’s study suggests that by eating a diet rich in luteolin, as well as taking supplements such as peppermint essential oil, has a definite effect on slowing down age-related memory loss. A person, who consumes a diet, including a steady regimen of supplements containing luteolin, has a greater chance of restoring memory to an earlier age, due to its anti-inflammatory effects in the brain and spinal cord. This is due to the fact that luteolin has been shown to inhibit or reduce the initial activation of microglial cells and the inflammatory cytokines that they eventually produce.
In conclusion, start stocking up on nutritional supplements beginning with peppermint essential oil. Secondly, rather than reach for a bag of chips, a better choice of snacks would be some fresh carrots, peppers, celery, and a nice cool glass of refreshing peppermint tea!
Written by Brenne Meirowitz, BA, MA, MS
[1] “Compound in celery, peppers reduces age-related memory deficits.” NewsRx Health & Science, Oct 31, 2010 p184. Web. 7 Jan. 2011.