Aromatherapy
Lavender has been used by both individuals and institutions to calm people and assist with sleep. In Britain, for example, lavender essential oil has been used very successfully in hospital to replace sleeping medications and you can do the same. Either a lavender water spray on the pillow before bedtime or any kind of diffuser can be used to spread the scent of the lavender in the person's room. Aromatherapists also recommend lemon essential oil in the morning, for an energy boost and to counteract depression and Geranium essential oil in the early evening for those who suffer from sundowning.

Gingko
Interest has grown in Gingko biloba, a herbal remedy used for centuries in China as a remedy for several ailments, including brain disorders. It is possible that compounds in ginkgo may block chemicals that can damage nerve cells. In a year-long study (reported in the October 22, 1997, issue of the Journal of the American Medical Association Study), some participants took a specific formulation of ginkgo extract, while others received a placebo. All participants had mild to severe dementia. Results suggested that the extract may stabilize and, in some cases, improve the quality of life for Alzheimer's patients for 6 months to 1 year. This result is not considered significant by doctors who warn that ginkgo may reduce your blood's ability to clot and that it could be hazardous when combined with blood thinners, including aspirin.

A discussion of the possible dangers of herbal remedies can be found at http://www.mayohealth.org/mayo/9707/htm/me_6sb.htm

Vitamin therapy
New research shows that vitamin E may slow progression of the disease in some people with Alzheimer's disease - but only briefly (about seven months). Vitamin E is an antioxidant and may prevent nerve cell damage by destroying toxic free radicals. Free radicals are byproducts of normal cell metabolism. Some scientists think free radicals are discharged by immune cells that are in the brain responding to chronic brain inflammation from Alzheimer's. The free radicals may attach to molecules in the nerve cell membrane and disrupt function. Although vitamin E doesn't require a prescription, it's best to take it under a doctor's supervision to prevent possible side effects.