Marblehead doctor to host memory lecture at library

RYAN MCBRIDE/Staff photoDr. Peipei Wishnow in her Marblehead home. She is the founder and president of Interceuticals, a Salem-based company that specializes in herbal supplements that aim to help slow the progression of memory loss and dementia. MARBLEHEAD — Dr. Peipei Wishnow, founder of Interceuticals in Salem, will lead a lecture and discussion on memory at the Abbot Public Library in Marblehead this Sunday.

Titled “Protecting Brain and Memory As We Age,” the talk will focus on the doctor’s research and her product, Better Memory. Wishnow says the natural supplement, made from theracurmin curcumin, aims to slow age-related memory issues.

Curcumin, the main active ingredient in turmeric, has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, according to a UCLA study published in the American Journal of Geriatric Psychiatry. Researchers reported a 28% increase in memory functions in participants who took theracurmin curcumin twice a day for 18 months.

A native of Hangzhou, China, Wishnow came to the U.S. in 1985 to pursue a doctorate in biology. After conducting post-doctoral studies at MIT and the California Institute of Technology and serving as a research scientist in the pharmaceutical industry, she moved to Marblehead with her husband.

“I grew up in a family that understands the value of traditional Chinese medicine,” she said while describing her grandfather, an herbalist in China.

Drawing on her roots, Wishnow founded Interceuticals in 1997. Since then, she’s worked to combine Eastern and Western medical practices in an attempt to help the aging process for both men and women. Her earlier supplements included BetterMan for bladder control and stamina, followed by BetterWoman.

“We’re doing all of these things, what else can we do?” Wishnow asked. “I want to help myself and help the people I love.”

Since developing Better Memory, Wishnow says she’s given the supplement to her 93-year-old mother, who was displaying dementia-related symptoms. After six months, she says her mother became more engaged and was able to recognize family members and recite a new poem from memory. Wishnow has also started taking the daily supplement to aid her concentration and multitasking abilities.

Patricia J. Rogers, director of the Abbot Public Library, says she’s excited to hear Wishnow discuss her story and her knowledge of Eastern and Western medicines. Wishnow will lead a lecture and short discussion before opening a Q&A session. The library hosts more than 70 public programs each year, the director says, but this is the first time Wishnow is coming to speak.

“She’s a very well-grounded scientist,” said Rogers. “The topic is of great interest, and I’m happy to have the opportunity to share this information.”

Wishnow will speak at the Abbot Public Library, located at 235 Pleasant St. in Marblehead, on Sunday, Dec. 1, at 2 p.m. The event is free and open to the public and no registration is required.

Staff writer Alyse Diamantides can be reached at 978-338-2660 or adiamantides@salemnews.com .

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