Dr. Brozina: How to Improve Memory with These 4 Herbs

The brain is our most active organ, continuously coordinating physical functions, generating thoughts, and storing memories. Two facts are particularly interesting: it is estimated that the human brain contains about 10 billion nerve cells, and despite this vast number, our cognitive abilities begin to decline after the age of 27. To maintain brain function, it’s crucial to find a “psychophysical” balance that includes a balanced diet, physical activity, and stress reduction. However, since this can sometimes seem like an “impossible mission,” many people turn to supplements and vitamins for the brain that could potentially assist them.

Which Dietary Supplements to Choose?

When selecting dietary supplements to support our cognitive abilities, we should focus on those that contain B-complex vitamins. However, it’s worth noting that there are also other plant-based ingredients that can help improve our mental performance.

Bacopa Extract

The herb Bacopa has been used for centuries in Ayurvedic medicine, either alone or in combination with other herbs, as a memory and learning enhancer, as well as a sedative and anti-epileptic. It contains active compounds such as alkaloids, saponins, bacosides, and sterols, which promote concentration and memory, maintain mental balance, increase alertness, and assist in managing attention disorders. Additionally, some research results suggest that its extract could contribute to the treatment of Alzheimer’s disease and other neurological disorders, though more detailed studies are needed to confirm these results.

Gotu Kola (Centella) Extract

The key component of this plant is asiaticosides (triterpenoid compounds) which have anti-stress and anti-anxiety effects. Asiaticosides are involved in the transmission of nerve impulses in the brain, promoting faster blood flow and better oxygen supply. Recent research even links the use of gotu kola with enhanced memory potential.

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Guarana Extract

Guarana is a South American plant species and a culturally significant plant known for its fruit with considerable potential for health benefits. The dry extract of this plant has been used for centuries due to its stimulating effects from its high caffeine content, which positively impacts fatigue relief after physical and mental exertion. Additionally, some studies have shown that the flavanols in guarana can prevent excessive oxidative stress at gastrointestinal levels. Flavanols are a subset of flavonoids—natural compounds found in plants.

Ginkgo Biloba Extract

A large number of studies have confirmed the effectiveness of standardized ginkgo extracts on memory, mood, and the improvement of cognitive abilities in older adults. Ginkgo extract positively affects recall ability, reaction time, information processing speed, and also helps improve symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease and dementia. One of the key functions of ginkgo extract is enhanced blood circulation in the brain. After reading all this, you may wonder which supplement might be the best choice for you. A supplement that combines all these herbal ingredients along with B vitamins, coenzyme Q10, and lemon balm (Melissa) in one capsule is MemoMax. It is a Croatian product that can be used by students, working professionals, and retirees—essentially anyone who is daily “exercising their brain power”. Sources: Fatima U, Roy S, Ahmad S, Ali S, Elkady WM, Khan I, Alsaffar RM, Adnan M, Islam A, Hassan MI. Pharmacological attributes of Bacopa monnieri extract: Current updates and clinical manifestation. Front Nutr. 2022 Aug 18. Torres, E. A. F. S., Pinaffi-Langley, A. C. C., Figueira, M. S., Cordeiro, K. S., Negrão, L. D., Soares, M. J., da Silva, C. P., Alfino, M. C. Z., Sampaio, G. R., de Camargo, A. C. (2022). Effects of the consumption of guarana on human health: A narrative review. Compr Rev Food Sci Food Saf. 21, 272– 295. Foto: Canva