African Herbal Remedies for Dementia: Tradition, Promise, and Caution
By Oluwasola Samuel, freelance health writer. Medically reviewed by A. Odutola. MBBS, PhD.
African elderly man and caregiver with African herbal remedies for dementia. Click on image to enlarge.
Dementia can be scary, not only for those who experience it but also for caregivers and the families who watch their loved ones change before their eyes. If you have ever had a parent forget your name, struggle with daily tasks, or repeat the same sentence over and over, you understand the emotional toll it can take.
Dementia is a general term for a group of conditions that affect memory, thinking, and behavior. It progresses and gradually reduces a person’s ability to perform everyday activities and maintain social connections.
Over 55 million people live with dementia worldwide, and nearly 10 million new cases are diagnosed each year, according to the World Health Organization (WHO). [1] In fact, dementia is currently the seventh leading cause of death globally and one of the major causes of disability and dependency among older people.
In Africa, where our elders are deeply respected and where traditional knowledge still plays a huge role in healthcare, many people are turning to herbs passed down through generations to support memory and brain health. But are they safe? Do they really work? And what should caregivers know before trying them?
This blog breaks down some of the most commonly used African herbs for memory loss and dementia, how they are believed to work, and what science says about them so far.
Africa is a continent rich in medicinal plants. While scientific evidence is still catching up with traditional knowledge, certain herbs have shown early promise in supporting cognition and protecting brain function.
Below are some of the plant products that are promoted as helping brain health:
Collection of African bitter kola on a white plate. Click on the image to enlarge.
In many Nigerian and West African households, bitter kola is more than a casual snack; it is medicine. It's a bitter, nut-like seed that is traditionally used to treat infections, coughs, and fatigue. It is believed by many elders to delay brain loss and improve mental clarity in older adults. Bitter kola contains active components like kolaviron, which has a strong antioxidant property that reduces oxidative stress and chronic inflammation in the brain. [2, 3]
Bitter kola is rich in antioxidants, which can help protect brain cells from damage caused by free radicals. These free radicals are a major contributor to brain ageing. The antioxidant powers in bitter kola may play a role in preventing or slowing down brain ageing or damage.
Related: 10 Health Benefits of Bitter Kola: Africa’s Natural Gift to Health and Wellness
Picture of moringa leaves and seeds. Click on image to enlarge. Photo credit: Unsplash
The moringa tree is commonly referred to as a “miracle tree.” Yes! You heard me right. Both its leaves and seeds are used all over Africa. It is often added to soups and teas or taken as a powder because of its bioactive compounds (flavonoids, phenolic acids, and isothiocyanates) that help calm inflammation, protect nerve cells, and improve brain signaling. Moringa is widely used to strengthen the body’s immune system and mind.
Moringa has high antioxidant and anti-inflammatory content that helps neutralize free radicals and protect against neuroinflammation. This helps maintain mental sharpness and memory, making it popular for both the young and elderly.
Picture of a Ginkgo biloba tree. Click on image to enlarge. Photo credit: Unsplash
This plant extract, rich in antioxidants, is said to treat Alzheimer's disease and other related dementia symptoms through its anti-inflammatory effects. Though this plant is originally from China, it's cultivated worldwide. It is available in African herbal shops in the name of Ginkgo Biloba Extract EGB761, and it is considered a popular remedy for brain health. [4]
Ginkgo biloba helps improve memory and reduce symptoms of dementia by increasing blood flow to the brain. However, some clinical trials have found modest improvements in memory and thinking in people with early-stage Alzheimer’s, but these results are mixed, and the herb is not a substitute for medical treatment. [5] Hence the need for more research for conclusive clinical recommendations.
Picture of ginseng in natural and powder form. Click on image to enlarge. Photo credit: Vecteezy
Ginseng is another non-native herb commonly used in Africa. It is an herbal blend used for brain health. It is used for general vitality, stress relief, and brain support. This herb may enhance learning, memory retention, and overall brain performance, particularly in ageing adults.
Ginseng contains active chemicals like ginsenosides, which possess antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and neuroprotective properties that support brain memory. [6] These active properties help reduce the buildup of amyloid-beta plaques and tau protein that causes Alzheimer's disease, a common form of dementia.
Picture turmeric in natural and powdered form. Click on image to enlarge. Photo credit: Vecteezy
Turmeric is a rich spice commonly used for cooking in Africa and Asia. It has powerful health benefits for brain health, especially in people living with dementia. Turmeric has curcumin, an active component that is a rich antioxidant and anti-inflammatory agent. Turmeric helps protect brain cells from continuous damage caused by free radicals and reduces swelling of the brain.
Some studies suggest turmeric may also help to eliminate amyloid plaque proteins, often found in people living with Alzheimer's disease. [7] This makes turmeric a powerful natural spice that supports memory and brain function.
Image of green rosemary leaves. Click on image to enlarge. Photo credit: Vecteezy
Rosemary, a fragrant herb rich in rosmarinic acid and antioxidants. [8] It has long been valued for its memory-enhancing and neuroprotective effects. Studies suggest it can help protect brain cells from oxidative stress, which contributes to the progress of dementia. Rosemary improves blood flow to the brain and supports neurotransmitter activity that may boost concentration, memory, and overall mental clarity.
Rosemary is originally native to the Mediterranean and is now widely available in African markets and traditional medicine. However, while moderate use in teas or extracts may support brain health, high doses can cause adverse effects such as seizures.
Picture of vibrant sage leaves. Click on image to enlarge. Photo credit: Pixabay.
Sage is a silver-green herbal leaf. It is widely used in African and Mediterranean traditional medicine for its healing power. Modern research now supports what traditional medicine has long known about the brain health benefits that sage possesses, particularly in people with dementia.
Sage helps protect acetylcholine (a brain chemical that transmits signals between neurons, muscles, and glands) in the brain. [9] When acetylcholine is low, it can cause forgetfulness and Alzheimer’s disease.
Beyond this, sage is packed with antioxidants that fight oxidative stress, a major driver of brain ageing and memory loss. This makes sage not just a cooking spice but also a natural aid for cognitive support.
A picture of Hericium erinaceus, also known as the lion's mane mushroom. Click on image to enlarge.
This unique-looking mushroom is white and shaggy, like a lion’s mane. It originally comes from Asia but is now used in many parts of the world, including Africa, for its brain-supporting benefits.
The Hericium erinaceus mushroom promotes the repair and growth of nerve cells. It helps to improve cognitive function and potentially reduce symptoms associated with neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's.
Studies suggest that lion’s mane is known to help the brain grow and repair itself. [10] It supports the brain by encouraging the growth of new nerves and protecting old ones from damage. This is important for people living with dementia, whose brain cells are slowly getting weaker.
While African herbal remedies may offer potential benefits, they should be used carefully, especially for people with underlying health conditions or those taking other medications.
Below are some important information you should know before taking any herbal remedy:
1. Dosage and standardization
Most herbal remedies are not well regulated or standardized. [11] This means the strength of an herb can vary significantly from one preparation to another. Without clear dosing guidelines, it is easy to underdose (making the herb ineffective) or overdose (leading to harm).
Many herbal users assume natural means are safe. However, combining herbs with conventional medications such as those for diabetes, high blood pressure, or dementia can lead to harmful drug interactions. This can also lead to life-threatening situations.
Self-medication with herbs without professional supervision may delay necessary medical treatment or cause unintended side effects. For instance, ginkgo biloba can increase bleeding risk, especially in people taking drugs like aspirin or drugs that thin out blood vessels.
4. Need for Medical Guidance
Always consult a healthcare provider, especially a doctor, pharmacist, or certified herbal practitioner, before introducing any herbal remedy to a loved one with dementia or any other condition. Not every herb is right for every person. This is because of their potent components, which may be dangerous for consumption without proper consultation.
5. Limited clinical research
Although traditional knowledge holds value, most of these herbs still require lots of scientific research through human trials before they can be widely recommended in medical settings. Hence the need to take caution while using herbal remedies.
Please note: Before using any African herbal remedies, kindly speak with your healthcare professional to help ascertain if it's safe and in what quantity you should use it.
No, at the moment, there is no known cure for dementia, whether herbal or conventional treatments. Herbs may help relieve some symptoms or support brain health, but they should be viewed as things that complement or support brain health and not as a cure for brain health conditions like dementia.
Not always. Some herbs can interact with medications or worsen existing health conditions due to their bioactive compounds. It is important to consult your healthcare professional before using any herbs.
There's no single herb that is proven to be most effective. However, bitter kola, moringa, and ginkgo biloba are among those commonly used. Their effects may vary based on the individual, dosage, and other health factors.
Some people combine herbs for added benefits, but this increases the risk of drug interactions. However, it’s best to use one herb at a time under medical supervision.
Yes, there are. Take, for instance, ginseng, which can cause insomnia, and ginkgo and turmeric, which may increase bleeding risk if you are on blood thinners. Always monitor for side effects and stop use if unusual symptoms occur.
Across Africa, herbal medicine remains a source of healing, especially in places where access to hospital-based care is limited. For dementia and cognitive decline, traditional remedies like bitter kola, moringa, ginkgo biloba, and ginseng offer therapeutic potential. It is important to note that herbs cannot cure dementia or other related conditions. However, they play a supportive role in brain health.
African herbal remedies cannot replace professional care. Instead, they can complement it, especially when used under proper medical supervision and guidance. If you’re caring for an ageing parent or want to stay sharp as you grow older, combining traditional practices with modern healthcare may be the best path. But ensure it's done under medical supervision.
1. World Health Organization. Dementia [Internet]. 31 March 2025. [Cited 2025 Sep 5]. Available from here.
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3. Pizzino G, Irrera N, Cucinotta M, Pallio G, Mannino F, Arcoraci V, et al. Oxidative stress: Harms and benefits for human health. Oxid Med Cell Longev 2017];2017:8416763. Available from here.
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8. Kola A, Vigni G, Lamponi S, Valensin D. Protective contribution of rosmarinic acid in rosemary extract against copper-induced oxidative stress. Antioxidants (Basel). 2024 Nov.19;13(11):1419. Available from here.
9. Sam C, Bordoni B. Physiology, Acetylcholine. [Updated 2023 Apr 10]. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2025 Jan-. Available from here.
10. Docherty S, Doughty FL, Smith EF. The acute and chronic effects of lion’s mane mushroom supplementation on cognitive function, stress and mood in young adults: a double-blind, parallel groups, pilot study. Nutrients. 2023 Nov 20;15(22):4842. Available from here.
11. Lamichhane S, Sahariah BJ, Das B, Khatiwara D, Sola P, Adhikari RP, et al. Herbal drug standardization: a systemic review. Journal of Drug Delivery and Therapeutics. 2023 Apr 15;13(4):149–53. Available from here.
Published: September 20, 2025
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