From Forest to Brain: Tamarack Bark in Alzheimer’s Research
CWSF · 2026 Health & Wellness Bronze Medal
Overview
Tamarack bark tea is a traditional tea consumed by the Aboriginal people of Canada. It is primarily made up of the bark of Larix laricina to help with the health of the brain. Although the traditional knowledge highlights the benefits, there is limited scientific evidence that it is effective in countering Alzheimer's disease. In this study, we have incorporated a community survey with laboratory experiments to determine the relationship between tea preparation and composition with its biochemical activity. Four lab tests were used: a Butyrylcholinesterase (BuChE) inhibitory assay, an Acetylcholinesterase (AChE) enzyme assay, Folin-Ciocalteu Total Phenolic Content (TPC) Assay and an ELISA test. Results revealed that the longer boiling time and higher concentration of tea resulted in the higher enzyme inhibition and increased amount of phenolic compounds. These results were in agreement with the results of the survey questionnaire, where participants declared an improvement in memory with longer-boiled tea.
Awards (2)
- Bronze Medal
- Selected for CWSF 2026
Competition history
- CWSF 2026
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