Expert: Mary Gordon - 6/10/2010

Question
Actually it's not a question but a sharing of knowledge based on Ayurvedic medicine (Indian Alternative medicine). I have been studying this subject for quite a long time and have some concrete theoretical base. I am 3rd generation in this field and associated with a Pharmaceutical company as Vice President (Technical) in the formulation research division. I do not have any commercial interest but the intention is to benefit the society. Will you read my theory of possibility of treating Alzheimer's disease. The basis of my dissertation is as follows: Nasal medication has direct access to the Central Nervous System as it bypasses the Blood Brain Barrier. Considering the contents of the brain tissue, it is more than 70% Fats. Therefore if a refined fat (In India we call it Ghee made from cow milk/ which is also known as clarified butter) substance processed with herbs like saffron, Bacopa, Ocimum is introduced through the nostrils, it will support the functioning of the brain and prevent the functional deterioration. I have already prepared this product in India and have started giving to 60+ people. I do not have much knowledge about checking the clinical benefits. I will be glad to learn the parameters of clinical evaluation and then study the benefits of this product. Hope you will appreciate my sincere attempt which is safe. Even if it may not benefit, but it will not have any untoward effect on any other system in the body. Eager to read your views. If this works, it will be a revolution in the field of geriatrics.

Answer
Dear Dr. Julakar

I'm sorry but I am not really able to assist you with this. I am not a research scientist or a doctor, and I have no access to research programs, personnel or funding. I am not affiliated with any medical or scientific organization or company. I am a lay person with knowledge of dementias from personal experience within my family, and from the reading and research done during that journey, and as a volunteer for the past decade. The purpose of this web page is to provide supports to families and individuals who are struggling with friends and loved ones with dementias. I can provide insights and practical advice and steer them to resources and information. I also provide emotional supports and ethical and moral perspectives. I do not evaluate treatments. What I do is assist people with understanding what their options might be, based on published research and available resources and knowledge. I can also provide perspectives on the practical realities of some treatments, such as side effects, behavorial issues etc. I do this so that caregivers are armed with enough information to ask the medical staff the right questions and make decisions for their loved ones. Many people with dementias have very complex medical issues, and it is for their doctors and families to evaluate potential treatments in the specific situation of the individual. There are many illness that cause cognitive impairment, and most of them are not well understood in terms of root causes.

I wish you best of luck with your endeavors. I would suggest you approach the pharmaceutical company you are affiliated with. If you are having good results with the individuals who have volunteered to try your ideas, and you can demonstrate that, the company might be interested in pursuing your approach.