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Ayurveda Meets Modern Science: Indian Researchers Make Breakthrough in Alzheimer’s Treatment

In a promising development for the treatment of Alzheimer’s disease, researchers at the Bose Institute in Kolkata have combined modern scientific approaches with ancient Ayurvedic wisdom

• By Pooja Chaturvedi Sah
• New Delhi
• Jan 21, 2025

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In a promising development for the treatment of Alzheimer’s disease, researchers at the Bose Institute in Kolkata have combined modern scientific approaches with ancient Ayurvedic wisdom. Their study has revealed a dual strategy to combat amyloid beta aggregation, a key factor in the progression of Alzheimer’s and other neurodegenerative diseases, offering hope to millions affected by these conditions worldwide. 

Alzheimer’s disease is often linked to the accumulation of amyloid beta proteins in the brain, which form toxic clusters that disrupt normal cognitive functions. Led by Professor Anirban Bhunia, the research team employed two innovative approaches to address this issue. First, they developed chemically synthesized peptides designed to inhibit the aggregation of amyloid beta proteins. Second, they turned to an ancient Ayurvedic formulation called Lasunadya Ghrita (LG), which has been traditionally used to treat depression-related illnesses, repurposing it to tackle the same problem. 

The team identified the non-toxic components of LG and extracted a water-soluble variant, termed LGWE, to test its efficacy. Remarkably, LGWE not only inhibited the initial formation of toxic amyloid aggregates but also disrupted the elongation stage, where harmful plaques tend to form. It further demonstrated a superior ability to break down amyloid aggregates into smaller, non-toxic fragments when compared to synthetic peptides, showcasing the potential of Ayurvedic compounds in addressing complex neurological issues. 

Published in two journals, Biochemistry (ACS) and Biophysical Chemistry (Elsevier), the study has gained significant recognition in the scientific community. While the ACS paper highlighted the safety and stability of the synthetic peptides, the Biophysical Chemistry study showcased LGWE’s unparalleled efficiency in mitigating the effects of amyloid toxicity. 

The collaborative effort involved researchers from the Saha Institute of Nuclear Physics, IIT-Guwahati, and Ayurveda expert Professor Sanjeev Rastogi from Lucknow University. “Synthetically designed small molecules show promise towards inhibition of various kinds of amyloidosis,” noted a statement from India’s Ministry of Science and Technology. Additionally, the researchers emphasized that natural compounds like LGWE may offer a more effective and sustainable approach to tackling amyloid beta aggregation than their synthetic counterparts. 

Lasunadya Ghrita is a formulation made from ingredients such as garlic, dried ginger, black pepper, asafoetida, honey, and aged ghee. Each component is known for its medicinal and neuroprotective properties. For instance, garlic is rich in antioxidants that reduce oxidative stress, while compounds in ginger and black pepper have been shown to prevent amyloid plaque formation and suppress inflammation in the brain. These traditional ingredients, combined with modern research methods, offer a holistic solution to a pressing healthcare challenge. 

The findings have opened new doors for Alzheimer’s treatment, not only validating the potential of Ayurveda but also underlining the importance of integrating traditional medicine with modern scientific advancements. As Professor Bhunia’s research illustrates, a multidisciplinary approach can lead to groundbreaking discoveries that benefit patients and families grappling with debilitating conditions like Alzheimer’s disease. 

This study is a testament to the growing recognition of natural remedies in modern medicine. By bridging the gap between tradition and innovation, it offers a path forward in addressing neurodegenerative diseases that continue to affect millions globally.