Natural Herbs for Memory

As you age, your cognitive processes, including memory, may become impaired. This age-related condition may improve with the use of herbs and herbal supplements that boost the memory. Herbs for improved memory function may benefit younger people as well. Anyone wishing to boost cognitive function may wish to try the memory-enhancing properties of available herbal supplements.

Gingko biloba

• Gingko is a tree native to China, though it is cultivated in regions around the world. In making the supplement found on supermarket shelves, the leaves of the tree are dried and processed to produce an herbal extract, concentrating the terpenoids and flavonoids that are reputed to enhance memory.

  Gingko increases blood flow, thanks to the presence of terpenoids, and a freer supply of blood oxygenates the brain. A well-oxygenated brain operates at an improved level, benefiting concentration and memory skills.

  The flavonoids are powerful antioxidants, which reduce the number of free radicals. The reduction of free radicals results in healthy cellular growth, which in turn means healthier brain cells. Ginkgo biloba does not directly enhance the memory, but rather improves the condition of the brain overall through improved circulation and reduction of free radicals.

Rosemary

• The rosemary plant has long had a reputation as an herbal memory enhancer, but unlike gingko it isn't processed into a supplement and taken on a daily basis. Author John Lust cautions that excessive use of rosemary, taken internally, may result in poisoning.

  The scent of rosemary triggers chemical processes in the brain that may make you feel more alert and stimulate your cognitive processes. But there are no definitive studies that demonstrate a cup of rosemary tea a day will keep memory loss away.

  Rosemary is best used as a culinary compliment in your cuisine. The small doses obrained in this way may aid in improving memory. But any concentration of this herb should be avoided.

Ginseng

• The root of the ginseng herb, like gingko biloba, is processed to form an extract that is available commercially. Ginseng aids in the ability to form new connections between neurons, boosting cognitive processes including retention of information. It is also thought to boost dopamine and norepinephrine levels, hormones associated with mood and energy levels.

  Dopamine and norepinephrine levels directly affect the efficiency of cognitive processing. When these levels are normal, your brain operates efficiently. When they drop, you experience brain fog and short-term memory loss.

  Like gingko and rosemary, ginseng does not directly affect the memory, but rather the underlying conditions such as cell growth and hormone levels.

Use

• Both ginseng and gingko can be taken daily as supplements. With a proper diet and exercise regimen, either herbal supplement may aid in keeping your memory sharp. Rosemary should not be used as an extract, but rather included in your cooking.

  Always consult with your physician or healer when considering introducing a new supplement to your daily routine. Herbal supplements may interact negatively with each other and with any prescriptions or over-the-counter medications you may be taking.