Red dye from lichens that is commonly used as a clothing and food dye may be helpful in the prevention and treatment of Alzheimer's. The dye contains a compound called orcein that binds to amyloid, the protein that congregates in the brain causing Alzheimer's. When left in small particle form, amyloid is toxic, but the orcein of the lichen promotes these particles to mature into plaques which appear to not be harmful. Orcein has also been found to reduce the number of small particles within the brain. It is still up for debate on whether this finding will be effective in treating Alzheimer's disease.
http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2011/12/111202155519.htm
-Lindsey May
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