Bill Gates opens up about his father's Alzheimer¡¯s battle, lauds medical advances; new study finds benefits in Rosemary herbs

Bill Gates, an American businessman and philanthropist, has expressed a strong enthusiasm about the recent advancements in the battle against Alzheimer¡¯s disease and related dementias, as he has a personal connection to the disease. Gates' father, William Gates, who died in 2020, lived with the disease.

Sharing an essay published on Tuesday, June 17, on his blog, Gates Notes, the Microsoft co-founder shared his optimism, noting significant moves that have been made in understanding and treating the disease.

The 69-year-old philanthropist showed his excitement had spiked after his visit to Indiana University's School of Medicine in 2024, where he got a first-hand look at the "latest breakthrough" in Alzheimer's research and development, which is the blood-based diagnostic tests.

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About 1 in every 9 people has Alzheimer¡¯s disease

According to the note, over 7 million people in the United States, or about 1 in 9 people over the age of 65, have currently discovered they have Alzheimer¡¯s disease.

Tragically, on Sunday, Leonard A. Lauder, co-founder of The Est¨¦e Lauder Companies, passed away at the age of 92. More than a business icon, Lauder was widely admired for his passion for art, generous philanthropy, and dedicated support of medical research, particularly in the fields of breast cancer and Alzheimer¡¯s. The news was confirmed by the Est¨¦e Lauder Companies.

A big step forward in the fight against Alzheimer¡¯s: The FDA approved the first blood test to help diagnose the disease. Breakthroughs like this will make earlier, easier diagnosis possible¡ªbringing us closer to better treatments and, someday, a cure. https://t.co/Mf5T0EDHf0

¡ª Bill Gates (@BillGates) May 20, 2025

Alzheimer¡¯s disease is a form of dementia that involves the accumulation of abnormal protein clumps called plaques and tangles in the brain. These deposits damage and eventually kill the nerve cells, interfering with how they communicate with each other.

The condition is progressive and currently irreversible, with symptoms worsening over time. However, recent research may have a solution to manage the condition better.

New research shows the rosemary herb can help treat Alzheimer's

Adding to the growing sense of momentum, new research has also turned attention to natural compounds with potential cognitive benefits. According to a recent report by The Independent, scientists are now studying rosemary, the aromatic Mediterranean herb, for its role in supporting brain health.

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The research suggests that rosemary, the aromatic herb native to the Mediterranean that has long been used in kitchens across the globe, can help manage brain health, reduce inflammation, and improve immune function. The research further indicates that rosemary could potentially play a role in combating Alzheimer¡¯s disease, the most common form of dementia globally.

But how does rosemary help treat Alzheimer's?

The report suggests that rosemary boosts the blood flow, including to the brain, which can boost the delivery of oxygen and essential nutrients, potentially supporting sharper mental function. Along with this, it also has a soothing effect on the brain.

Research shows that its aroma may help reduce anxiety and promote better sleep. Since lower stress levels are linked to improved concentration and memory, rosemary¡¯s calming influence could contribute to better cognitive performance.