How Photobiomodulation Reverses Dementia
Research into how photobiomodulation reverses dementia is still in its early stages. Preliminary findings are promising. Here’s how it plays a central role in reversing dementia. Photobiomodulation …
- Enhances the Mitochondrial Function: Mitochondrial dysfunction is a key factor in Alzheimer’s. Photobiomodulation improves the function of mitochondria by increasing ATP (adenosine triphosphate) production.
- Reduces Oxidative Stress and Inflammation: PBM has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects. By mitigating oxidative stress and inflammation, Photobiomodulation helps to reverse neuronal damage found with dementia.
- Promotes Neurogenesis and Synaptic Plasticity: Studies have found photobiomodulation stimulates production of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF). This is the protein essential for the formation of new neurons and support functionality of synapses
- Improves Blood Flow: Photobiomodulation enhances cerebral blood flow. Robust blood flow enables the delivery of oxygen and nutrients to brain cells and removal of waste products. Improved blood circulation helps improve cognitive function.
The study cited below reviewed a critical body of studies that evaluated whether photobiomodulation reverses dementia. Researchers drew the conclusion that “photobiomodulation has wide applicability in the treatment of stroke, traumatic brain injury, Parkinson’s disease, Alzheimer’s disease, major depressive disorder, and other diseases.”
The previous term for this therapy was “low level laser therapy.” Researchers could not agree on what “low” meant exactly so an agreement was made to name the therapy photobiomodulation. It stands at the top of my list of natural therapies that can address dementia, especially in the formative stages.
Robert Rodgers PhD
Parkinsons Recovery
Olympia Washington
360-866-9297
Neural Regen Res (Neural Regeneration Research) 2021 Jun;16(6):1177-1185. Current application and future directions of photobiomodulation reverses dementia in central nervous diseases such as Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s.
Abstract
Photobiomodulation using light in the red or near-infrared region is an innovative treatment strategy for a wide range of neurological and psychological conditions. Photobiomodulation can promote neurogenesis and elicit anti-apoptotic, anti-inflammatory and antioxidative responses. Its therapeutic effects have been demonstrated in studies on neurological diseases, peripheral nerve injuries, pain relief and wound healing.
We conducted a comprehensive literature review of the application of photobiomodulation in patients with central nervous system diseases in February 2019. The NCBI PubMed database, EMBASE database, Cochrane Library and ScienceDirect database were searched. We reviewed 95 papers and analyzed.
Photobiomodulation has wide applicability in the treatment of stroke, traumatic brain injury, Parkinson’s disease, Alzheimer’s disease, major depressive disorder, and other diseases. Our analysis provides preliminary evidence that PBM is an effective therapeutic tool for the treatment of central nervous system diseases.