Molecules found in certain plants could help to relieve the symptoms of Alzheimer's disease, a new study has suggested.

Researchers have found that the flavonoids luteolin and diosmin, which can be found in various fruits and vegetables, can help to cut the amyloid-beta build-up on brain tissue.

In a study conducted on mice which were genetically programmed to develop Alzheimer's disease, Florida-based medical experts found that when dispensed, the molecules reduced the levels of the protein within the brain.

Amyloid-beta is known to create deposits on the brains of Alzheimer's patients and thus using the flavonoids as a therapy could help to relieve the condition.

Terrence Town of the University of South Florida and Cedars-Sinai Medical Centre, who led the study, said: "These flavonoids are widely available in natural foods and it appears that they may be used in purified form as therapeutic agents.

"The compounds have few if any side effects and are naturally occurring in citrus fruits. They also can be found as dietary supplements in health food stores."

A separate study released earlier this week revealed that the length of a person's limbs could determine the likelihood of them getting Alzheimer's disease.

Scientists at Johns Hopkins University in Baltimore, Maryland, found that those with smaller arms and legs appeared more susceptible to the condition than their lankier counterparts.

Click here to learn more about Alzheimer's disease

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