Alzheimer's disease is a progresive degenerative disease that negatively affects a person's memory. The disease strikes predominately in the elderly, but can begin any time in adulthood. Some known and suspected causes of Alzheimer's disease include:

• An excess of aluminium in the body: Sometimes aluminium can build up from high aluminium content in the drinking water, aluminium from personal health care products, and even some over-the-counter medications. Read all labels carefully! Get a hair mineral analysis to find out if you might have excess aluminium. Ask your local holistic practitioner about this procedure.

• Dental work: Some people believe that fumes from silver fillings (which contain mercury) cause dementia over time. Discuss the possibility of having your fillings replaced with a composite material if this is a concern. For a Association at 800-388-8124 or 619-586-1208, or the International Academy of Oral Medicine and Toxology at 407-298-2450.

• Poor circulation: Make sure there are no circulatory problems when it comes to Alzheimer's disease, as any lack of oxygen and blood supply to the brain can affect thinking. Consider herbs such as ginkgo and gotu kola to improve brain circulation.

Prevention is best when it comes to Alzeimer's disease, but in Germany this condition is treated with a wonder herb called ginkgo biloba. Ginkgo biloba is a heavily studied herb from China that has proven over and over again its positive effects on the brain and the circulatory system.

The ginkgo tree is one of the oldest living trees in China, and some have used its leaves in books to prevent bookworms! The best results for Alzheimer's disease can be seen after several months of steady use, although some improvement can be noticed sooner.

Ginkgo has been shown to greatly slow down the generation caused by Alzheimer's disease and even to restore a better memory to others. Ginkgo increases blood supply to the brain, which helps bring the brain needed nutrients such as oxygen and glucose.

If I had only one herb to use to any type of memory problems, it would have to be ginkgo. To fight Alzheimer's take 240 mg of standardized ginkgo twice daily, before meals. If you are not suffering from the disease, but want a memory boost, 40-80 mg two times a day should be sufficient.

Gotu kola (Hydrocotyle asiatica) is another excellent brain food herb that can be combined with ginkgo for added effect. The gotu kola leaves are used in Ayurvedic (Indian) medicine especially for nervous system disorders. Author and Master Herbalist Louise Tenney says that "Two capsules a day will keep old age away."

Other brain foods you can take in supplement from are lecithin, zinc, B-complex, and vitamin E (which helps with circulation). Remember this zinc rhyme, "If you drink, take zinc; if you stink, take zinc; if you need to think, take zinc."

Zink should be taken in an herbal form, such as herbal pumpkin. If you are taking a zinc pill, do not exceed 45 mg per day without supervision. Too much or too little zinc can lower your immune system. Make sure you are getting the right amount for you.

Also keep your brain active by reading. Make changes in your life that help you think in new ways. Practice or play memory games, and if you are beginning to be forgetful, think about working preventatively with herbs right away.