DEMENTIA is currently incurable - but scientists have revealed a chemical component of cannabis could boost memory in old mice. Experts said the finding opens up a whole new avenue of future research into the disease.
Results published today suggest that THC, a chemical component of cannabis, could improve the learning capabilities of rodents.
Experts have said the whole new chemical system, called the endocannabinoid system could be a ‘potential target for new avenues of research which could include illnesses like dementia’.
Dementia is a set of symptoms which can include memory loss, difficulty problem solving, thinking and can lead to behavioural changes such as a change in temperament or mood but it can affect people in very different ways.
Low doses of THC were administered over a period of 28 days in young - two months old and mature - 12 months old and old 18 months old rodents.
The researchers then tested the mice for their memory and learning skills and found that the older mice had their memory and learning abilities restored to similar levels to the younger mice.
http://www.express.co.uk/life-style/health/801827/dementia-cure-cannabis-THC-chemical-memory