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New research from the Center for Applied Medical Research (CIMA) in Spain shows that when mice with Alzheimer's disease inhaled peppermint essential oil, their cognitive abilities improved.
The smell of peppermint can help improve memory |
In particular, the researchers found a decrease in the protein interleukin-1-beta (IL-1β), which helps regulate the inflammatory response — a response that can provide the body's natural defenses but can lead to harm when not properly controlled.
Scientists focused on the role of the olfactory system and the immune system. Short exposure to the substance for 6 months prevented cognitive decline in mice with Alzheimer's disease, while also improving the cognitive abilities of healthy young mice. Peppermint oil was also able to return the IL-1β protein to safe levels in the brain. This finding opens up the potential for using specific odors as therapeutic treatments for Alzheimer's and other neurological diseases.
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