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7 Best Herbs and Spices for Brain and Memory Health

Village Green Nutrition Team on
Certain herbs and spices can support brain health.

People often think of brain and memory health as something that will naturally decline with age. Many herbs and spices can help delay these signs of aging – and that’s just one way that they can boost your health. Many people don’t realize that there are herbs and spices that can help support brain health sitting right in their cupboard or spice rack.

What kind of benefits can herbs and spices give our gray matter? People who take them regularly often mention an increased ability to focus, improvement in their reasoning abilities, and even elevated mood. One significant benefit from these natural remedies has to do with memory. Loss of memory is a growing concern for Americans, especially baby boomers. Alzheimer’s is a growing epidemic. The CDC found that nearly 6 million U.S. citizens were living with it in 2020, and the numbers are rising.

This article offers background information on the seven best herbs and spices for mental health, how they help the human brain, and habits to adopt to improve brain health.

Overview of Using Herbs and Spices for Brain Health

Many studies show that several of the herbs and spices below boost the activity levels of neurotransmitters in the brain as well as reduce inflammation. Millions of Americans already use coffee for their daily jolt of mental energy. Coffee has its downside, though, because it can overstimulate the body’s adrenal glands.

There are different theories on how these plant-based remedies work. One theory states that they have several compounds, so their beneficial powers come from a cocktail of brain-enhancing goodness.

Top Herbs and Spices to Promote Brain Health

The following list outlines some herbs and spices that may help improve brain health.

    1. Turmeric

      This is the yellow spice found in curry. India is likely the native home of turmeric, as its inhabitants have used it for hundreds of years. It offers more than flavor, though; many scientists have touted its anti-inflammatory abilities. Chronic inflammation has been linked to Alzheimer’s, so this is an important attribute. The active compound in turmeric is curcumin.

        2. Ginger

          Originating in Southeast Asia, ginger is a healthy (and tasty) spice. Ginger, like turmeric, is believed to be effective as an anti-inflammatory. A 2012 study linked it to improved brain reaction time and memory.

            3. Rosemary

              Rosemary is an herb shown to have antioxidant properties as well as the ability to lower the stress hormone, cortisol. Using a diffuser to inhale the essential oil of rosemary has been shown to lower cortisol levels in the blood. You can also enjoy rosemary in your food.

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                Turmeric - My Village Green
                PATHWAY Turmeric
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                Standardized to contain 95% Curcuminoids Turmeric has potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, as well as cardiovascular, liver and digestive protective capabilities. Pathway Turmeric contains Curcumin C3, a patented blend of curcuminoids that has been clinically tested. Suggested Use: 1 capsule daily
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                Ginger - My Village Green
                HERB PHARM Ginger
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                We prepare Ginger extract from the rhizome of Certified Organic Zingiber officinale plants. To assure optimal extraction of the herb’s bioactive compounds, the rhizomes are harvested only when fully mature, carefully shade-dried, then thoroughly extracted. We source sliced Ginger, as opposed to powdered, which helps it retain its pungent aroma and flavor. The herb is extracted in small batches with Certified Organic cane alcohol to maintain the balance of phytochemicals as they exist in the plant. We assure herb identity via macroscopic and organoleptic analysis, then confirm it through methods such as HPTLC fingerprinting specific to each herb. Our liquid extracts are easily dispensed, taken in liquid form and added to water or other liquid. Suggested Use Shake Well Before UsingAdd 1 full squeeze of the dropper bulb to 2 oz. of water or juice, 2 to 5 times per day. Best taken between meals. Strength Herb Menstruum Ratio 1:5
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                Rosemary Oil, Organic - My Village Green
                NOW Rosemary Oil, Organic
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                For aromatherapy use. For all other uses, carefully dilute with a carrier oil such as jojoba, grapeseed, olive, or almond prior to use. Please consult an essential oil book or other professional reference source for suggested dilution ratios.

                4. Ginkgo

                Ginkgo has been shown to improve cognitive health, brain function and reduce inflammation. It has been shown to enhance oxygen and blood flow to the brain.

                5. Ashwagandha

                This adaptogenic herb has a long history of use helping to counteract the negative effects of stress. Ashwagandha aids in promoting concentration and focus, and it has been shown to also support cardiovascular and endocrine health.

                6. Ginseng

                Ginseng has been used in Chinese medicine for hundreds of years and is highly regarded for its anti-inflammatory properties, ability to boost brain function, and increased energy levels. Some studies seem to show ginseng can also help improve a person’s immune system.

                7. Bacopa

                This ancient herb offers brain-boosting and stress-reducing properties, and emerging studies show it may help with ADHD. Bacopa may help reduce restlessness and impulse control. 

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                Ginkgo Biloba Extract 120MG
                PATHWAY Ginkgo Biloba Extract 120MG
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                Ginkgo biloba has been studied for many years, with research demonstrating its powerful antioxidant potential as well as its ability to support circulation, thereby improving glucose and oxygen transport, particularly to the brain. Our Ginkgo biloba is European standardized ginkgo from a world leader in the manufacturing of European extracts used in clinical studies. European herbs are manufactured to the same standards as over-the-counter drugs in the USA. More importantly, the herb must demonstrate efficacy and safety before it can be sold to the public. The two active ingredients that provide the most significant health benefits are the flavone glycosides and terpene lactones, both of which our ginkgo is consistently standardized for.Features Manufactured by a world leader in European standardized herbs. Standardized to 24% Flavonglycosides, 6% Terpene Lactones, 0.8% Ginkgolide B. Made to the same specifications as the material used in clinical studies Tested for ginkgolic acid, which is a contaminant naturally occurring in ginkgo. It is potentially harmful in large amounts. Our material is required to test below 5 ppm. Benefits Active ingredients are powerful antioxidants that help protect healthy brain cells against free radical damage. Effectively supports healthy circulation by promoting the stable activity of platelet-activating factor; an important mechanism involved in normal, healthy blood clotting. By supporting circulation, ginkgo helps promote the delivery of oxygen and other essential nutrients, particularly to the brain. Ginkgo has been studied extensively to support brain health. It is important to note that these studies used European standardized extracts. Using nonstandardized ginkgo will not produce the same effects. More than 120 clinical studies have been published on standardized ginkgo biloba extract, most of which demonstrated benefits for brain, cardiovascular, and neurological health. Studies also show ginkgo promotes antioxidant protection.
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                Ashwagandha Extract 500 MG Ashwagandha Extract 500 MG
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                Ashwagandha is a beloved herb in the Ayurvedic pharmacopeia that has recently gained popularity outside of Ayurveda—and for good reason. While Ashwagandha brings a long list of benefits to the body, it is historically known as an Adaptogen. Ashwagandha supports the body’s resiliency to stress, while it also brings the amazing ability to energize and calm at the same time. Ashwagandha Extract is believed to help create and maintain vitality, energy, rejuvenation, and to avoid insomnia and other nervous conditions. The plant, scientifically designated as Withania somnifera, grows throughout India, the Middle East, and in parts of Africa. It contains steroidal lactones known as withanolides, which have been shown through scientific studies to be responsible for the health-promoting benefits of the plant. Features: Standardized Ashwagandha Extract from Sabinsa, a world leader in Ayurvedic herbal extracts 500mg per capsule, standardized to 7% Withanolides Standardized Ashwagandha Extract has been used in numerous clinical studies, continuously showing its effectiveness against inflammation for over 40 years Gluten Free, Non GMO and Vegan Contains No dairy, wheat, gluten, corn, eggs, peanuts, soy, tree nuts, fish, shellfish, sesame, preservatives, artificial colors or flavors Benefits: Ashwagandha Extract 500 mg Supports Energy and a Healthy Response To Stress. Helps maintain healthy cortisol levels. Helps reduce fatigue and improve energy. Acts as an adaptogen, helping to maintain the body’s healthy response to physiological and psychological stress. Helps maintain mental focus and acuity. Helps improve physical performance and strength. Helps maintain a positive outlook. Helps promote restful sleep. Helps maintain healthy blood sugar levels. Helps mitigate oxidative injury caused by nervous tension.
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                American Ginseng - My Village Green
                OREGON'S WILD HARVEST American Ginseng
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                Adapt to stress the American way Ginseng means “man root” in Chinese. Perhaps this is because of the way the root looks or perhaps it’s because Ginseng is known to support the whole body with increased stamina, vitality and even helps strengthen the immune system. May you feel energized, naturally. Features 50 Non-GMO bovine gelatin capsules Sustainably harvested American Ginseng root freshly milled and processed in small batches for optimum potency FREE from dairy, wheat, gluten, peanuts, soy or corn allergens Product verified Non-GMO by SGS, an independent, third-party lab Manufactured with love by us in Redmond, Oregon USA
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                Organic Bacopa - My Village Green
                HIMALAYA USA Organic Bacopa
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                Organic Bacopa extract supports mental alertness and empowers your clarity of thought Certified USDA Organic, Non-GMO Project verified and Vegan, with no Wheat, Corn, Soy or Dairy Supports the physiological processes involved in relaxing your mind Helps minimize occasional lapses of forgetfulness and promotes normal mental acuity Better promotes alert daytime learning and problem-solving abilities

                Scientific studies on many of these herbs are still ongoing, but preliminary results and reports from users have been positive. This is excellent news for people looking to support their brain and cognitive function.

                In addition to taking herbs and spices for brain and memory health, there are also many lifestyle choices that can greatly boost your brain’s ability to function at its best.

                Better Brain Health Habits to Adopt

                Many activities promote good brain health. Most of them are fairly simple, take little time, and help improve overall health, not just that of your brain. Here are some of the best.

                Get Some Cardio

                People who elevate their heart rates through proper cardiovascular activity create increased blood flow to the body and brain. This can help to reduce a decline in cognitive ability.

                Keep Learning

                The brain, similar to other muscles in the body, gets its exercise through learning. Continued learning is available through community college classes, online learning, or just picking up a good book, doing puzzles, playing an instrument, learning a language, and so many more things.

                Stop Smoking

                Studies reveal that smoking contributes to declining cognitive function. People who stop smoking increase their likelihood of improved brain health.

                Maintain a Healthy Weight

                The body and brain are closely linked. Maintaining a healthy weight reduces strain on the heart. A healthy heart means blood flow to the brain is likely to be healthy too.

                Get a Good Night’s Sleep

                Getting the proper amount of quality sleep each night can help to make your mind sharper.

                Eat an Anti-inflammatory Diet

                There are many foods that promote healthy brain function, such as wild-caught fish, a wide variety of colorful fruits and vegetables, as well as nuts and seeds.

                Maintain Mental Health

                Depression, anxiety and stress all take a toll on the brain. Working through mental health issues, talking with friends, or getting professional help when needed can be very beneficial.

                Stay Social

                One ongoing challenge in the digital age is maintaining real human contact. Staying connected through social media is not the same as interacting with people, though it is certainly better than nothing and has been a life-saver for many people during the pandemic. Humans are social creatures. Though people also need time alone, isolation can negatively impact mental health.

                There are many ways to support healthy brain and cognitive function. Using or taking herbs and spices, eating an anti-inflammatory diet and practicing healthy lifestyle habits can be extremely helpful.

                Come to Village Green for Brain and Memory Supplements

                Village Green Apothecary has a wide selection of top quality nutritional supplements, including hard-to-find practitioner brands. We also have a very knowledgeable staff that can help you choose supplements that are the best fit for you. Contact our team for support and guidance.

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