It's Never Too Early to Start Taking Herbs for Your Brain Health

Throughout human history, people have used plants to treat a range of ailments and help boost human health. Although modern medicine may have come a long way, more and more people choose to use traditional herbal-based remedies to support their health. With the brain being arguably the most important organ in the body, we look at herbs for brain health and how they can support its function.

It's Never Too Early to Start Taking Herbs for Brain Health

The brain is the powerhouse of the human body; Every movement, breath, and thought relies on it. Good brain health contributes to the well-being of the whole human system.

There is a range of herbs that benefit the functioning of the brain. Some have a positive effect on cognition, improving thinking, understanding, remembering, and learning processes. Others are studied for their positive effects on brain disorders like dementia.

Because of the diverse range of benefits herbs can provide to the human brain, it really is never too early for adults to incorporate them into their everyday life. Doing so can help protect brain health for the years to come as well as provide instant benefits like feeling more alert, energized, and focused. They can even have a positive effect on our moods.

What Herbs Should I Be Taking?

Tumeric 

It can help to improve memory and attention span by boosting the brain protein BDNF (Brain Derived Neurotrophic Factor). BDNF increases the production of neurons and fights against many degenerative processes.

Sage

Studies show that even in small doses, it can significantly improve memory function. It can also help reduce the chances of developing Alzheimer's by reducing the depletion of key neurons in the brain. Turmeric and Sage have long been shown to promote good brain health, but other, less-known herbs have proven to be extremely effective in assisting in all areas of good brain health.

Ginkgo Biloba

In traditional Chinese medicine, Ginkgo Biloba leaf has long been used as a treatment for dementia. Studies show that it may help slow the decline in cognitive function among dementia patients and those experiencing neuropsychiatric symptoms. It is thought that Ginkgo Biloba helps to boost cognitive function by encouraging circulation and blood flow to the brain. As a powerful antioxidant, it helps protect the brain from oxidative stress and the aging process. It also helps to improve memory and concentration.

Gotu Kola

It is widely known as the herb of longevity and has long been used in traditional Chinese, Indonesian, and Ayurvedic medicine. It is said to help with overall cognition. Especially memory and nerve function and has demonstrated a positive effect on those with Alzheimer's disease. It helps by stimulating the growth of new brain cells by activating the release of BDNF (Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor). It improves circulation and delivers oxygen and nutrients to the brain. Like Ginkgo Biloba, it is also a powerful antioxidant.

It has also been concluded to have an acute anti-anxiety effect and may help elevate our mood. Research indicates that Gotu kola can help reduce levels of cortisol, the stress hormone, while also increasing levels of serotonin, dopamine, and norepinephrine, the “happy hormones”.

Eleuthero Root (Siberian Ginseng)

This root is classed as a mild stimulant. Because it increases oxygenation of the cells, tests show that it can help enhance mental performance by speeding up reaction time, and improving memory and learning. It also strengthens hearing and improves vision. It is classed as an Adaptogen and works to protect the brain from stress.

Cayenne Pepper

It are regarded as the king of medicinal herbs and have been used for thousands of years to help treat many health problems. When it comes to brain health, cayenne pepper is packed with a diverse range of vitamins, including vitamins A and E, both powerful antioxidants. Vitamin A maintains good brain function by fighting the swelling caused by free radicals. Vitamin E helps to slow the aging process and keep body organs healthy. Research also shows that the body responds to spicy foods by releasing endorphins, the ‘happy hormones”, resulting in improved mood.

Passionflower

It is commonly used to alleviate anxiety and depression. It can relax the mind and at the same time protect the brain. The alkaloids present in the herb increase gamma amino-butyric acid (GABA) in the brain. The brain uses GABA as an inhibitory neurotransmitter, preventing over-excitement and promoting relaxation and restoration.

These alkaloids can also boost dopamine, noradrenaline, and serotonin, “happy hormones”, and block MAOA, an enzyme that breaks them down. Passionflower contains several antioxidant compounds that help to rid the body of damaging free radicals.

Fenugreek Seed

The development of neurodegenerative diseases, such as Parkinson's and frequent consumption of Fenugreek Seed. It is suggested that Fenugreek Seed extract can block the activity of acetylcholinesterase, an enzyme involved in the development of Alzheimer's. It also has an Anti-Parkinson effect. Riboflavin, a compound found in Fenugreek, can help chronic migraines by improving cell response, repair, and growth. Another compound found in this herb is choline. According to studies, choline is an essential nutrient for brain health. It can help with numerous factors such as memory, brain development, mood disorders, and nerve cell signaling.

How to Take Herbs

Most herbs can be included in the diet by cooking with them or drinking them as tea. Herbal tinctures are another popular way to ingest herbs. An herbal tincture is a concentrated liquid form of one or multiple herbs. They are taken orally, using a dropper to drop the liquid under the tongue.

However, to ensure proper amounts, many people prefer to take them in capsule or tablet form to reap the full range of benefits. Tablets generally contain individual herbs or a blend of herbs to target specific needs. Common Sense™ “HeadStart” tablets contain a blend of herbs to promote ultimate brain health.

Herbs can deliver lasting wellness, nourishment, and health to all areas of the body. To learn more about the benefits herbs can provide to the body, visit the Common Sense™ Products website. We have a range of informative articles all about the health benefits of herbs.