Natural Brain Boosters

The human brain has an incredible ability to adapt and change and reshape itself when it comes to learning and memory, even into old age. This ability is known as neuroplasticity. With the right stimulus, the human brain can form new neural pathways, modify existing connections, adapt to increase cognitive abilities, enhance the ability to learn new information, and improve memory at any age.

When considering to support mental clarity and cognitive function, the priority is to use a natural product. According to Ayurveda, the healing capacity of these natural products, spices, and herbs, depends upon their associations with the human mind, body, and spirit. No artificial means can provide these benefits. These natural products, spices, and herbs are integral to the web of life. At least 60% of the brain is made up of fat, and it is essential to eat healthy fats, including coconut oil, avocados, nuts, and seeds. Following are a few natural products, spices, and herbs that improve memory and brain function:

Shilajit (Asphaltum punjabianum)

Shilajit helps to assimilate nutrients, minerals, and oxygen into the brain. Shilajit is a powerful detoxifier for the brain that helps remove dangerous toxins such as beta-amyloid protein. A prolonged buildup of these proteins leads to neuronal dysfunction that can eventually lead to degenerative brain conditions such as Alzheimer's and Parkinson's disease and even early cell death. Shilajit also inhibits the enzyme that breaks down the neurotransmitter acetylcholine. Acetylcholine is critical for memory, concentration, and overall brain function. Stress and ageing decrease levels of acetylcholine. Shilajit promotes the production of acetylcholine, thus protecting the brain from degeneration.

Green Tea (Camellia sinensis)

Green tea contains caffeine, which stimulates brain function, including mood, vigilance, reaction time, and memory, without causing any jittery effect as it does not have as much caffeine as in coffee, but enough to produce a positive response. Green tea contains an essential amino acid L-theanine that can cross the blood-brain barrier. L-theanine has a synergistic effect with caffeine to stimulate the inhibitory neurotransmitter Gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), which has anti-anxiety effects. It also increases dopamine and the production of alpha waves in the brain that effectively calm the mind.

Broccoli (Brassica oleracea)

Broccoli is a rich source of vitamins, minerals, fibre, and other bioactive compounds. Bioactive compounds found in broccoli slow mental decline associated with ageing and maintain the function of the brain and nerves. Studies show that kaempferol, a compound found in broccoli, lowers brain injury incidence and reduces neural tissue inflammation. Another potent bioactive compound present in broccoli is Sulforaphane, which can support brain function after decreased oxygenation to the brain. Studies prove that sulforaphane helps recover brain tissue and reduces neural inflammation following brain injury or toxic exposure. Sulforaphane also helps rebuild junction proteins that decline after brain injury and elevate brain defence mechanisms.

Walnut (Juglans regia)

Walnuts have a striking resemblance to tiny brains. They are packed with brain-boosting nutrients such as polyunsaturated fats, polyphenols, and vitamin E that help reduce oxidative damage and inflammation in the brain and support brain function. Walnuts are also a rich source of vitamin B1 and vitamin B6. Walnuts contain several neuroprotective compounds, with the highest amounts of omega 3 fatty acid that is critical to the health and smooth functioning of the brain. Walnuts also increase neurogenesis, i.e., new brain cells' growth, thus preventing neurodegeneration and maintaining brain health. They also improve the signaling amongst neurons within the brain. Walnuts show significant improvements in learning skills and memory besides anxiety reduction. Eating walnuts regularly lowers the risk of Alzheimer's disease and dementia.

Cinnamon (Cinnamomum verum)

Cinnamon has been used in traditional medicine worldwide for thousands of years. Studies have suggested that cinnamon helps prevent Neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's and Parkinson's disease. A protein called tau, one of the hallmarks of Alzheimer's disease, damages brain cells essential for learning and memory. Cinnamon bark extract prevents Alzheimer's by inhibiting the tau protein buildup and improving the ability to think and reason. Cinnamon helps protect neurons, normalized neurotransmitter levels, and improve motor functions in Parkinson's disease. Cinnamon also improves working memory in older adults and diabetics while improving blood flow to the prefrontal cortex.

Mint (Mentha spicata)

According to research, mint can improve memory and retrieve the brain's cognitive function. Regular use of mint strengthens brain power by increasing alertness and enhancing memory and other cognitive functions. According to the International Journal of Neuroscience, the scent of peppermint improves memory and focus. Studies show that smelling mint essential oils increases alertness and decreases frustration, anxiety, and fatigue.

Nutmeg (Myristica fragrans)

Nutmeg was commonly used as a brain tonic by the Greeks and Romans during ancient times. Nutmeg contains various compounds that boost mood, help relieve pain, relax blood vessels, and lower blood pressure. Nutmeg aromatic oil contains myristicin, which helps in Alzheimer's disease or dementia by reducing the degradation of neural pathways and improving cognitive function. It helps eliminate fatigue and stress and stimulates brain functions. Nutmeg is also used to fight depression and anxiety. As an adaptogen, it can be both a stimulant and a sedative. It helps lower blood pressure during stress, lifts the mood, acts as a tonic and stimulant. Nutmeg also helps to increase concentration.

Saffron (Crocus sativus)

Saffron promotes learning and memory retention. Studies show that saffron improves memory and cognition in Alzheimer's disease due to its antioxidant properties. Studies show that saffron is helpful in the treatment of age-related mental impairment. In Japan, saffron is used to treat Parkinson's disease, memory loss, and inflammation. Saffron also helps treat depression that is associated with memory loss and forgetfulness.

Ginger (Zingiber officinale)

Ginger, an anti-inflammatory agent, reduces the oxidative stress and chronic inflammation that causes brain cells to age and die and protects against neurodegenerative diseases, including Alzheimer's disease and age-related cognitive decline. Studies suggest that ginger's antioxidants and bioactive compounds can inhibit inflammatory responses in the brain. The ginger extract helps improve memory and attention, and studies prove that regular use of ginger improves reaction time and working memory. In addition, numerous studies show that ginger can help protect against age-related decline in brain function.