The compound contained in the leaves and bark of the Voacanga africana tree protects cells against changes that lead to the development of Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s and brain’s nurodegenerative diseases, reports the Journal of Ethnopharmacology.
The people of São Tomé and Príncipe in the Gulf of Guinea have used the leaves and bark of this tree for hundreds of years to treat inflammation and alleviate mental illness.
Scientists from the Salk Institute for Biological Studies in the US analyzed extracts from five plant species found on the islands. Three of them were used by local healers. The effect of the extracts was tested on human and mouse cells. It turned out that Voacanga africana tree extract protected cells from oxidative stress, which can cause DNA damage and lead to neurodegeneration. In addition, it had anti-inflammatory effects and inhibited the amyloid-beta build-up that promotes the development of Alzheimer’s disease.
It is a potential ingredient in new drugs. There are many such sources of beneficial and potent compounds that are found in various places around the world. Most of them have not been tested at all – emphasizes the author of the research, Pamela Maher. (PAP)