Vinpocetine is a synthetic substance derived from a unique substance called Vincamine. It is usually found in the natural leaves of small periwinkle plants. It was originally found in the early 1960s. It is available as a prescription medicine in Japan and Europe. In the U.S. and Canada, Vinpocetine is available at health food stores as well as online in the form of nutritional supplements. It has many health benefits such as:
1. Curing of Alzheimer's Disease
It is extremely useful in curing Alzheimer's disease. Actually, it is considered as a balancing supplement and therapy for people suffering from Alzheimer's. Researchers claim that it can increase the supply of oxygen to the brain and save the nerves from any injuries. They also enhance the blood flow to the brain by inhibiting the action of a particular enzyme known as phosphodiesterase.
Although preliminary research with Vinpocetine demonstrates that there is a good outcome with Alzheimer's disease, considering the matter properly reveals that this evidence was not good enough to rely upon. Therefore there had to be much more studies in this area.
2. Dementia related to Vascular Problems
Insufficient flow of blood is the major cause of declined cognitive functions, which may accompany several other problems such as ageing and difficulty in recollecting names, dates and directions. Apart from these, memory lapsing and event of confusion are also experienced by people due to this insufficient level of blood circulation.
Vinpocetine is believed to increase the circulation of blood in the brain. A few research studies have shown that, it can reduce dementia and brain impairment after the event of ischaemic stroke. Even though it is promising, many still believe that strong and well-designed human research studies are required. In addition, other studies state that Vinpocetine can greatly aid in tinnitus after psychic trauma to the ear.
3. Enhancing the Rate of Memory Retention
Using Vinpocetine shows that there is a significant boost in remembering things. It is available as a dietary supplement in North America. Also it can increase your memory significantly and make your brain work much better, particularly if you are a normal human being.
Things to Consider:
Although there has been quite some research which has shown that the usage of Vinpocetine can boost your memory power, there are still some undesirable consequences like Even though, some studies proved its effectiveness on increased memory retention, but still it has certain side effects such as upset stomach, giddiness, nervousness, queasiness, hot flushes, sleeplessness, dry mouth, sleepiness and headache. Due it, there could even be a temporary low BP problem. Usually, doctors and scientists feel that ladies who are expecting or feeding infants should avoid consumption of Vinpocetine.
The safety of this supplement amongst individuals with kidney or liver damage is still unknown. In addition, people with low blood pressure, bleeding disorders or seizure disorder should completely avoid consuming this supplement.
Another vital thing to remember is to not take Vinpocetine for a fortnight before or after a dental or regular surgery. Its also important to remember that Vinpocetine should not be taken along with medicines and naturopathy drugs that can make the blood thin, such as Plavix, Ticlid, Pentoxifylline, Ginkgo, garlic and Vitamin E. One last thing to keep in mind is to avoid taking Vinpocetine along with Coumadin.
Conclusion:
Usually, Vinpocetine can be helpful in treating brain blood circulation problems such as severe stroke, problems in remembering things, aphasia, apraxia, inability to move properly, faintness and numerous other cerebro vestibular problems and headache. It is also helpful in taking care of severe eye related problems of different causes and there seems to be a vast amount of improvement in 70% of the people who were treated.
Lastly, Vinpocetine can be purchased at any medical shop as an OTC drug.