Herbal Treatment for Memory

Western medicine has finally embraced the use of herbs to help boost memory. Many studies have verified that herbs such as ginseng, ginkgo and rosemary can be effective in increasing your memory and learning capacity. Taken with care and under the supervision of a physician, herbs can be a fast-acting and safe way to get your memory back on track.

How to Take Herbs

• Herbs are best taken in a tincture, which is an alcohol mixture. The tincture is normally administered in droplet form once per day, with dosage depending on the potency of the herb. Tinctures are available in most alternative grocery and health food stores, or from your local herbalist. Powder supplements are readily available in capsule form at many supermarkets, but tinctures are generally regarded as more effective.

Ginkgo

• Ginkgo has been tested by western science and found to have proven positive effects on memory and general health. Ginkgo acts by increasing blood flow to the parts of the brain that focus on cognitive function. Ginkgo also helps the body to more efficiently use oxygen. According to "The One Earth Herbal Sourcebook," Ginkgo leaf has some anticoagulant effects, and patients who take blood thinning drugs should see their doctor before starting a ginseng regimen.

Ginseng

• Ginseng is an herb used to sharpen the functions of the mind and make you more alert. You have probably heard of ginseng if you have dabbled in herbal medicine at all. Ginseng is one of the most widely used herbs because it has general healing properties in addition to its memory enhancing effects. Ginseng strengthens the body and mind by increasing the rate at which the body heals itself at the chromosomal level, which helps cells stay healthier, live longer and reproduce healthy cells faster. Ginseng is usually taken as a powder extract in a capsule, and is often roasted or dried to prepare for consumption.

Rosemary

• Rosemary is an herbal treatment you don't have to eat to take. Often used as an aromatherapy herb, the smell of rosemary has proven effective in increasing cognitive functions, including memory for details and the capacity to learn new details. To use herbal aromatherapy with rosemary to boost your memory, herbal vaporizers such as the Volcano Vaporizer apply the aromatherapy most directly. If you lack the commitment for a $400 vaporizer you can also make or buy rosemary incense to spread the memory-enhancing smell of rosemary around your workspace.