The bush apple tree found to have neuroprotective properties that could be used as an intervention against neurodegenerative diseases

( Natural News ) A person’s brain health declines as he ages. In particular, neurons — building blocks of the nervous system — die or become damaged. As a result, his risk of developing neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s disease increases. Fortunately, he can protect himself from neurodegenerative diseases with the help of natural medicines like the bush apple tree ( Heinsia crinite ), according to a study published in the journal Food Science and Human Wellness . The leaves of the bush apple tree are consumed as a vegetable or as a component of concoctions for treating bacterial infections, diabetes, hypertension, and infertility. Their effect on neurodegenerative disease, however, is something that has not yet been fully understood. In the study, researchers from the Federal University of Technology and the Federal Institute of Industrial Research Oshodi in Nigeria and the Federal University of Santa Maria in Brazil investigated the potential neuroprotective effect of the leaves of the bush apple tree. Aqueous and methanol extracts of the leaves were used to see their effects on oxidative stress in rat brains. Oxidative stress plays a role in the development of Alzheimer’s disease and Parkinson’s disease . They also determined the total phenol and flavonoid contents of the extracts. The researchers discovered that the bush apple leaf contains high levels of phenolic compounds , such as quercetin , ellagic, chlorogenic, and caffeic acids. In addition, they found that the aqueous bush apple leaf extract had higher total phenol and flavonoid contents than the methanol extract. Discover how to prevent and reverse heart disease (and other cardio related events) with this free ebook : Written by popular Natural News writer Vicki Batt, this book includes everything you need to know about preventing heart disease, reversing hypertension, and nurturing your cardiac […]

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