Preventing Dementia Using Saffron, The Kampo Medicine, Kamiuntanto, and Their Combination, Kamiuntantokabankoka.

Kenny Kuchta,Nguyen Huu Tung,Yoshihiro Urade,Chun-Su Yuan,Yukihiro Shoyama,Kosuke Aritake,Yui Sasaki,Koichi Shimizu

doi:10.3389/fphar.2021.779821

Abstract

The objective of this review is to evaluate the anti-dementia activities of saffron and its combination with Kampo medicine. The Kampo formula Kamiuntanto composed of 13 crude drugs is well known for its anti-dementia activity. A significant increase in choline acetyltransferase activity and mRNA levels were observed. Polygala radix was identified as the most essential component drug in Kamiuntanto, probably due to the saponins, tenuifolin, and sinapinic acid. Ginseng was also identified as an essential Kamiuntanto component in terms of its synergistic functions with Polygala radix. Saffron, which was recommended in the Bencao Gangmu for memory and dementia, and is used as an anti-spasmodic, anti-catarrhal, and sedative herbal drug. Saffron and its major constituent, crocin were shown to enhance learning-memory, non-rapid eye movement (rem) sleep, and inhibit depression and neuronal cell death due to strong anti-oxidant and anti-inflammation activities. In addition based on the epidemiological studies such as the treatment of sleeping disorders and the clinical trials of saffron for Alzheimer patients, we demonstrated the indirect and direct anti-dementia activities of crocin and saffron.

Highlights

The incidence of neurodegenerative disorders such as dementia has increased with increased life expectancy
We further showed that previously proven crocin activity against colorectal cancer in mice was based on its strong anti-inflammatory activities (Kawabata et al, 2012)
The major Kamiuntanto constituents were assayed for their contribution to these activities

Summary

Introduction

The incidence of neurodegenerative disorders such as dementia has increased with increased life expectancy. It was estimated there could be 81.1 million dementia patients by 2040 (Ferri et al, 2005). In Japan, 7.3 million cases are speculated by 2025, and by 2050, 10.2 million cases are expected (National Institute of Public Health, 2015). Speedy and rapid dementia innovations and prevention methods are required.

Objectives

Findings

Conclusion