We humans have been blessed with these wonderful information processors – our brains. Sadly, there is a lack of education on how to maintain a healthy brain as we get older or when we want to improve our learning capabilities. Our brains are capable of enhancing memory, energy, and focus when we use natural brain boosters to prevent cognitive decline.

Throughout history, herbs have been recognized as beneficial healing plants; however, many people are unclear about which herbs to use if they want to curb brain fog. It’s not difficult to learn Ayurvedic healing if you’re new to the practice of it or simply need a refresher. Thousands of years ago, people used herbal remedies to promote mental clarity and cognitive function. Modern research has confirmed the effectiveness of these remedies.

1. Turmeric & Curcumin

The compound curcumin is found in turmeric, a plant. Curcumin has many health benefits, but you can get this particular substance by eating turmeric.

Turmeric is commonly used in the kitchen spice cabinet, but Ayurveda primarily uses it as a bioactive substance to support healthy inflammatory responses. Additionally, it deals with what is commonly known as brain fog, a condition that causes diminished mental focus and memory. It is difficult to think clearly when you have brain fog. A recent study suggests that Turmeric may help boost neurological function and combat mental fatigue.

2. Ashwagandha

Ayurvedic medicine Ashwagandha is an effective treatment for anxiety and depression. It has been shown in several controlled human studies that it reduces stress and anxiety symptoms effectively.

The supplemental group in a 60-day study reported a 69% decrease in anxiety and insomnia on average, compared to 11% in the placebo group. An additional six-week study reported that 88% of people taking Ashwagandha reported less anxiety compared to 50% of people taking a placebo.

3. Ginkgo biloba

There can be no list of natural brain boosters without Ginkgo biloba. This boosts brain function, especially memory, as well as your overall sense of wellness.

There is also evidence that Ginkgo benefits those suffering from cognitive disorders like Alzheimer’s. Several studies have shown positive results, and it appears to be most effective when used in conjunction with conventional treatments.

A daily dose of ginkgo extract will help keep your brain healthy.

4. Gotu Kola

Ayurveda and traditional Chinese medicine highly value Gotu kola (Centella Asiatica) for its beneficial effect on the brain. As a tonic, this herb is chosen as a herb of longevity.

The benefits of Gotu kola include improved memory, alertness, stress- reduction, and clear thinking. Traditionally, it has been used to treat brain fog and loss of memory. Studies show it may also treat Alzheimer’s symptoms.

Don’t wait for an instant result from Gotukola. It’s meant to be taken regularly and will help your brain over time.

Also check out our blog on Gotukola – The Ayurved Co

5. Bacopa

The herb Bacopa monnieri, known as water hyssop or Brahmi, is also recommended for the mind in Ayurvedic medicine. It can improve mental function, including memory and focus. Studies suggest it may also reduce stress, anxiety, and depression.

Additionally, bacopa contains antioxidants with neuroprotective properties. You may even benefit from this if you are suffering from diseases such as Alzheimer’s.

6. Rosemary

Rosemary (Salvia rosmarinus) has magnificently been connected with remembrance in Shakespeare’s Hamlet. For many years, herbalists have also considered it a brain tonic. Cognitive benefits are thought to include memory, focus, and preventing cognitive decline.

Recent research supports rosemary’s benefits for brain health. Study results showed that low doses of the herb could stop or slow cognitive decline in an elderly population. In addition to improving memory, alertness, and mood, the herb can also be taken or inhaled.

To improve your memory, try a rosemary extract or make tea with rosemary. You can also use fresh or dried rosemary in your cooking.

7. Tulsi

In the Ayurvedic plant cabinet, Tulsi stands out as a reliable herb that assists with mental clarity – also known as Holy Basil, Queen of Herbs. Among the brain boosters, Tulsi is believed to have immunomodulatory properties, which can aid your body’s immune system in numerous ways.  The herb holy basil is believed to be beneficial for the body, mind, and spirit. 

Holy basil acts as an adaptogen in all of its parts. Adaptogens are substances that aid your body in adapting to stress and promote mental balance. Research shows holy basil can help your mind survive a wide variety of stress in many ways. 

8. Peppermint

This list of herbs for brain health includes peppermint (Mentha piperita), which is a bit different from the other herbs. Some natural brain boosters work best over time, but peppermint can help you feel energized instantly.

Peppermint is sometimes referred to as the “green energy” herb, as it enhances mental energy without sacrificing physical energy. You can even use its refreshing scent in aromatherapy to improve your focus, mental alertness, and clarity of thought

The pain-relieving properties of peppermint make it ideal for headaches as well.

Peppermint tea improves your mental energy when consumed regularly. You can also use it as an essential oil. You can even crush fresh mint leaves to boost your mood, reduce stress, and refresh your mind.

9. Amla

The Amla fruit is best known in the West for its high content of Vitamin C. Just 100 grams of Amla berries – depending on the yield of the fruit – supply 10 to 30 times the vitamin C content of an orange. Australian researchers found that Vitamin C has a positive effect on cognitive functions including memory, lingual skills, calculation, and orientation. Cognitive function and brain health depend on Vitamin C. Also, vitamin C supports the healing process following traumatic brain injury.

10. Guduchi

The herb Guduchi is an extremely valued herb in Ayurveda. It works as a great memory booster and it is also known for anti-stress, anti-leprotic, and anti-malarial activities. As an antioxidant, zinc and copper in avocados protect cells against the effects of oxygen radicals. Generally, this is available in three forms: decoction, powder, and Satwa (starch extract of the stem).