Betel leaves show potential in Alzheimer’s research: Study |
Betel leaves, or paan leaves, have long held cultural, religious, and medicinal significance across South Asia. Traditionally valued for their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, they are now being studied for potential roles in neurodegenerative disorders like Alzheimer’s disease. Alzheimer’s causes memory loss, cognitive decline, and behavioural changes, affecting millions worldwide. According to theNHS, several factors can increase the likelihood of developing Alzheimer’s. A 2025 study, Identification of Therapeutic Potential of Hydroxychavicol Against Alzheimer’s Disease, used computer-based methods to explore how hydroxychavicol, a compound in betel leaves, interacts with proteins linked to Alzheimer’s. While purely computational, the study highlights hydroxychavicol as a promising candidate for further research.
What is Alzheimer’s and how common it is
Alzheimer’s disease is a common neurological disorder that affects a large number of elderly people. It causes a gradual decline in memory, thinking, and reasoning abilities. At present, there is no complete cure, and the medicines that do exist offer only limited relief. Hence, scientists continue to search for safer and more effective treatments.Among all types of dementia, Alzheimer’s disease makes up about 70–75% of cases. It affects around 24 million people worldwide. About one in ten people over the age of 65 has Alzheimer’s, and nearly one in three people over 85 is affected. In India, it currently affects about 8.8 million people over the age of 60. If the rate of the disease stays the same, the ageing population alone could raise this number to roughly 16.9 million by 2036.
How Piper betel leaves can be used to treat Alzheimer’s
A 2025 study titled Identification of Therapeutic Potential of Hydroxychavicol Against Alzheimer’s Disease: An Integrated Network Pharmacology, Molecular Docking, and Dynamic Simulation Studyinvestigated how Hydroxychavicol, a compound found in Piper betel, might influence proteins linked to Alzheimer’s disease. The research used computer-based methods, including network pharmacology, molecular docking, and molecular dynamics simulations to identify 88 human protein targets potentially interacting with Hydroxychavicol. Key proteins such as COMT, GAPDH, and HSP90AA1 were highlighted, suggesting involvement in processes like neurotransmitter regulation, protein folding, oxidative stress, inflammation, and important signalling pathways, including PI3K/Akt and calcium signalling.Age
- Age is the most significant risk factor. The chance of developing Alzheimer’s roughly doubles every five years after the age of 65.
- Around 1 in 20 people with Alzheimer’s are under 65, a condition known as early-onset or young-onset Alzheimer’s, which can begin from around 40 years of age.
Family history and genetics
- Inherited genes can slightly increase your risk of developing Alzheimer’s
- In some families, a single gene can cause Alzheimer’s, significantly raising the likelihood of passing it on.
- If multiple family members develop dementia, particularly at a young age, genetic counselling may provide guidance.
Down SyndromePeople with Down syndrome are at higher risk because the genetic changes associated with the condition can lead to amyloid plaque buildup in the brain, which is linked to Alzheimer’s.Head injuriesSevere head injuries may increase the risk, though more research is needed to confirm the connection.Cardiovascular and lifestyle factorsConditions related to cardiovascular health can contribute to Alzheimer’s risk, including:Alzheimer’s disease is a complex condition influenced by age, genetics, lifestyle, and cardiovascular health. Compounds like hydroxychavicol from betel leaves are being explored for their potential role in supporting brain health, highlighting the importance of continued research and preventive strategies.Disclaimer: This content is intended purely for informational use and is not a substitute for professional medical, nutritional or scientific advice. Always seek support from certified professionals for personalised recommendations.Also read | The real reason your stool turned black overnight: The warning signs of Melena you should never ignore
