THE National Institute of Complementary Medicine at the University of Western Sydney is seeking participants for a trial to assess the effectiveness of a herbal formula for people with mild cognitive impairment.
The study drug, Sailuotong (SLT) is a herbal medicine formula consisting of Panax ginseng, Ginkgo biloba, and Crocus sativus. It is designed to enhance cognitive and cardiovascular function.
Mild cognitive impairment (MCI) is a slight but noticeable decline in mental abilities, such as memory and thinking.
The study is being led by Genevieve Steiner, a dementia research development fellow in the Healthy Minds research team, who said it is estimated that one in three Australians over 70 have MCI impairment, which is related to Alzheimer's disease.
"People with MCI have a higher risk of getting dementia," Dr Steiner said.
There are currently no effective treatments for MCI.
The 12-week randomised placebo-controlled clinical trial is open to people aged over 60 who have problems with memory, or a diagnosis of MCI.
Participants will need to take two tablets morning and night and attend six clinic check-up visits.
All participants will receive 12 weeks free supply of the study drug at the end of the trial and be reimbursed up to $180 for travel expenses.
You might be eligible if you:
- Have noticed a decline in your memory and/or other mental abilities
- Do not have a diagnosis of dementia
- Are right-handed
- Do not have other serious ongoing health problems
