The 10 Best Ayurvedic Herbs & Spices For Brain Health

Just like other organs of the body, the brain also requires to be stimulated and exercised in order to carry on performance at maximum levels. The brain can be exercised by different activities such as learning a new language, solving puzzles, engaging in new activities, and interacting socially.

Researchers have also shown that even surfing the internet has very advantageous effects on the brain in areas such as language, visual, reading, and memory skills as well as working memory and decision-making.

Ayurvedic View

In Ayurveda, the perspective on optimal health revolves around living in harmony with the universe. To achieve this balance, it’s crucial to focus on nurturing a healthy mind and body while understanding the concept of “prajna,” which encompasses knowledge of the past, present, and future.

Prajna comprises three essential components:

1. Dhi (Perception): Dhi represents the discriminating and intellectual power of the mind. It’s the ability to judge what is right and wrong, enabling us to make informed decisions.

2. Dhriti (Retention): Dhriti is the courage and determination needed to act according to the decisions made by Dhi. It involves the willpower to follow through on our judgments.

3. Smriti (Memory): Smriti is our ability to remember and recall information, often referred to as “buddhi.” It involves retaining the experiences and knowledge gained through the five senses (panchendriyas: eye, nose, ear, tongue, and skin) throughout our lives.

Our cognitive functions, such as memorization, creative thinking, and recalling information, are collectively known as “Medha” or intellect. Information perceived through our senses and processed into Smriti becomes etched in our Medha.

However, factors like vitiated mano-doshas can lead to a decline in our cognitive health, resulting in “prajnaparadha” – the misuse of intellect. Prajnaparadha manifests as:

1. Dhi Vibramsa (Impaired Intellect): Impairment in the discriminating and judgmental capacity of the mind.

2. Dhriti Vibramsha (Loss of Control Over the Mind): Inability to control one’s mind, often leading to indulgence in harmful activities.

3. Smriti Vibramsa (Impaired Memory): Difficulty in remembering and recalling information.

To prevent prajnaparadha, Ayurveda suggests nourishing and preserving Smriti. This is crucial for people of all ages, but it’s particularly challenging for students who struggle to remember and apply what they learn in school and working professionals who may find themselves stagnating in their careers due to cognitive issues.

To maintain and enhance cognitive health, Ayurveda recommends specific home remedies, memory-boosting foods, and lifestyle-related tips. These practices aim to support your cognitive abilities, ensuring they remain sharp and vibrant over time.

Ayurvedic Medicine to Increase Brain Power

Ayurveda offers a range of natural products and remedies that are believed to help boost memory and cognitive function. Here are some Ayurvedic products and formulations commonly used for this purpose:

1. Brahmi Ghrita: Brahmi Ghrita is a traditional Ayurvedic preparation that combines the memory-enhancing properties of Brahmi (Bacopa monnieri) with ghee (clarified butter). It is known to promote mental clarity, improve memory, and support overall cognitive function. This formulation is often consumed orally.

2. Brahmi Oil: Brahmi oil is used for head massages, known as “Shiro Abhyanga,” to nourish the scalp and enhance brain function. It is believed to improve concentration and memory when applied to the scalp and massaged gently.

3. Saraswatarishta: Saraswatarishta is an Ayurvedic herbal tonic that contains a blend of memory-enhancing herbs, including Brahmi and Shankhpushpi. It is often used to improve cognitive abilities, enhance learning, and reduce mental fatigue.

4. Ashwagandharishta: While primarily known for its stress-reducing properties, Ashwagandharishta can indirectly support memory by promoting relaxation and reducing anxiety, which can improve cognitive function.

5. Shankhpushpi Syrup: Shankhpushpi syrup is a popular Ayurvedic formulation that contains Shankhpushpi (Convolvulus pluricaulis) and other memory-boosting herbs. It is used to enhance memory, concentration, and mental clarity.

6. Chyawanprash: Chyawanprash is a traditional Ayurvedic herbal jam that contains a blend of herbs, including Amla (Indian Gooseberry) and Brahmi. Regular consumption of Chyawanprash is believed to strengthen the mind, boost immunity, and support cognitive health.

7. Brahmi Vati: Brahmi Vati is an Ayurvedic tablet formulation that contains Brahmi as its primary ingredient. It is used to improve memory, concentration, and mental alertness. Brahmi Vati is available in different variations and is often taken with honey or water.

8. Yogaraj Guggulu: While primarily used for joint health, Yogaraj Guggulu may also support cognitive function indirectly by reducing inflammation in the body. In Ayurveda, it is believed that an inflamed body can negatively impact mental clarity.

9. Meditation and Pranayama: While not products in the traditional sense, practices like meditation and pranayama (breathing exercises) are integral to Ayurveda for improving memory and mental focus. These practices help calm the mind, reduce stress, and enhance cognitive function.

10. Amla Supplements: Amla (Indian Gooseberry) supplements or powders are rich in vitamin C and antioxidants. Regular consumption of Amla is thought to protect the brain from oxidative damage and support cognitive health.

Note: Before incorporating any Ayurvedic product into your routine, it’s essential to consult with a qualified Ayurvedic practitioner or healthcare provider, as individual needs and dosages can vary.

Additionally, maintaining a healthy lifestyle with a balanced diet, regular exercise, and stress management practices is integral to achieving optimal cognitive health as per Ayurvedic principles.

Ayurvedic Herbs for Brain Power

Ayurveda suggests various herbs that are believed to support brain health, enhance mood, and improve overall mental well-being.

These herbs can be beneficial not only for addressing cognitive decline associated with aging but also for promoting optimal cognitive function throughout one’s life. Here are some Ayurvedic herbs for brain power and mental health:

1. Ashwagandha

Ashwagandha acts as a strain buster as well as revitalizes the brain and helps in carrying on the brain functioning and calm.

It is primarily used for relaxing and keeping the brain cool for better execution. It also boosts memory power and intensifies the brain and its fretfulness.

2. Brahmi

This is a common herb used as a tonic for memory enhancement. It betters the brainpower and improves to make your memory clear and sharp.

Brahmi contains chemicals, that help in the protein fusion of the brain which in turn purifies the mental function of a person.

It is also used to improve mental powers. This herb, moreover, acts as an anti-calmative and anti-anxiety agent, as a result, many people use Brahmi Oil as a head massage for relaxing the mind.

3. Ginkgo Biloba

It is another leading herb advised in Ayurveda as a memory enhancer. Ginkgo Biloba benefits in enlightening the blood circulation in the central nervous system resulting in the appropriate functioning of the brain.

This herb is also used in the healing of Memory loss and Alzheimer’s illness. Ginkgo repairs damaged brain cells and improves the overall evolution and functioning of the brain. The best herbal medicine for memory.

4. Shankhpushpi

It is the most common and most-used Ayurvedic Herbaceous plant. Shankhpushpi is aforesaid to make the memory sharp and is a natural memory enhancer.

It has been used since ancient times in India as a memory tonic as well as a healing herb to relieve mental stress as well as controlling blood pressure. In India, many people use this herb for children during their exams.

5. Gotu Kola

The principal function of this herb Gotu Kola is to correct the blood circulation in the person as well as the brain. It activates the person as well as safeguards the brain cells.

Its foremost function is to increase brain power and improve its capacity. It is also used for enlightening concentration heights as well as memory.

6. Mulethi

Mulethi is another herb, which rejuvenates the brain. It is principally used as a stress-relieving healing herb due to its relaxing effect. It improves overall brain growth keeping it still and cool.

It also betters blood circulation in the nervous system. Muleti is a significant ingredient in any brain-intensifying tonics given to students and kids for memory betterment.

7. Vacha

Vacha is also familiar as the Sweet flag, Vacha is another memory enhancer, that is used to improve brain performance. The roots of the Vacha herb contain several essential oils and terpenoids, that help in giving that tranquilizer action that strengthens the nervous system.

It gives instant effects in terms of enlightening the memory as is advised for persons suffering from amnesia and different memory disarrays.

8. Malkangani

Malkangani herb, also recognized as the brainpower tree, is used in Ayurveda as a calmative and antidepressant drug for mental healing.

It has been used as a brain tonic ever since ancient times and is mostly used for persons suffering from memory loss. Malkangani has neuroprotective actions in it to better memory loss.

9. Medhya Dravya

Medhya herb or the so-called licorice plant is a modern addition to Ayurvedic medicine for memory enhancement. It is said to possess a number of advantages along with memory sharpness.

Besides this avoidance of cough and cold, edifying eye sights, and a cure against gastric ulcers. It is said to be the finest herb that can improve your memory significantly.

10. Giloy

Giloy is a further herb, which can better the dying brain cells and revitalizes the nervous system. It is in addition used as a memory-heightening herb in Ayurveda. It is said to restore the damaged cells within the brain.

It is believed that if the oxygen supply in the brain is below normal limits, the mental processes of the body are affected.

How to Increase Memory Power in Students by Food

Improving memory and cognitive health is a common concern for students, and adopting the right foods, lifestyle habits, and Ayurvedic remedies can be beneficial. Here are some tips on how to naturally enhance memory power:

Memory-Boosting Foods:

1. Dark Chocolates and Berries: Dark chocolates with high cocoa content (70% or more) are rich in flavonoids, and antioxidants that may benefit cognitive health. Berries, such as blueberries and strawberries, are also great choices as they contain antioxidants. These treats can improve mood and cognitive function when consumed in moderation.

2. Seeds and Nuts: Foods like sunflower seeds, almonds, cashews, and hazelnuts are rich in vitamin E, omega-3 fatty acids, and antioxidants. Including them in your diet can support brain health and potentially delay cognitive decline. Nibbling on these nuts, especially during periods of mental strain like exams, can aid in learning and concentration.

3. Whole Grains: Whole grains are rich in vitamin E and antioxidants, essential for cognitive health. They also provide sustained energy, reducing digestive strain and helping you feel more energetic in your daily activities.

4. Reduced Sugar Intake: Ayurveda recommends avoiding processed foods with added sugars, which can harm cognitive health. Instead, opt for natural sweeteners like jaggery, dates, and honey to satisfy your sweet cravings without compromising your cognitive well-being.

Lifestyle-Related Tips:

1. Engage in Brain Games: Activities like sudoku, chess, crossword puzzles, and word scrambles can help keep your mind active and improve cognitive abilities. These games are particularly beneficial for early cognitive development in children under 10.

2. Learn New Skills: Learning a new skill can challenge your brain and keep it mentally active. Whether it’s a new language, musical instrument, or craft, acquiring new knowledge and skills is a way to enhance memory and concentration.

Ayurvedic Home Remedies:

Ayurveda offers various natural remedies to support cognitive health:

1. Brahmi: Brahmi is an Ayurvedic herb known for its memory-enhancing properties. You can consume it in various forms, such as Brahmi capsules, Brahmi oil for head massages, or Brahmi tea.

2. Ashwagandha: Ashwagandha is an adaptogenic herb that can help reduce stress and improve cognitive function. It’s available in various forms like Ashwagandha capsules or Ashwagandha powder.

3. Vacha (Acorus calamus): Vacha is believed to enhance memory and concentration. You can use it in various Ayurvedic formulations or as Vacha oil.

Incorporating these memory-boosting foods, lifestyle habits, and Ayurvedic remedies into your daily routine can contribute to improved cognitive health and better memory.

Ayurveda Lifestyle Practices for Memory Enhancements

Certainly, Ayurveda offers various lifestyle practices to enhance memory and cognitive function. These practices focus on holistic well-being and mental clarity. Here are some Ayurvedic lifestyle practices for memory enhancement:

1. Yoga: Yoga, an ancient Ayurvedic practice, can improve memory and concentration. Asanas such as Padmasana (Lotus Pose), Vajrasana (Thunderbolt Pose), Sarvangasana (Shoulder Stand Pose), and Halasana (Plow Pose) help increase oxygen supply to the brain and stimulate the nervous system. This enhances cognitive function and memory.

2. Meditation and Pranayama: Meditation is a powerful Ayurvedic practice that reduces stress, enhances concentration, and improves memory. When combined with pranayama (breathing exercises), it calms the mind, increases focus, and enhances information retention and memory.

3. Adequate Sleep: Quality sleep is crucial for memory and overall health. During sleep, the brain consolidates and forms memories. Lack of sleep can negatively impact memory and cognitive function. Ensure you get adequate, restful sleep for optimal memory enhancement.

4. Stress Management: Chronic stress can impair memory and cognitive function. Ayurveda recommends managing stress through regular yoga, meditation, and pranayama. Additionally, Ayurvedic herbs like Ashwagandha, Brahmi, Shankhapushpi, Jatamansi, and Tulsi are known for their stress-reducing properties and can support improved memory.

5. Mindfulness: Mindfulness, an Ayurvedic practice, involves being fully present in the moment without judgment. Cultivating mindfulness can reduce stress, increase focus, and enhance memory. You can incorporate mindfulness into your daily routine by taking short breaks to focus on your breath and the present moment.

Tips: By incorporating these Ayurvedic lifestyle practices into your daily routine, you can support not only memory enhancement but also overall mental well-being. Remember that consistency in these practices is key to experiencing their full benefits.

Note: People who have inadequate oxygen supply to the brain, generally experience symptoms such as poor memory, concentration, loss, dizziness, etc.

Herbs for memory Improves blood circulation throughout the body, prevent stroke, fight free radicals, and act as energy boosters.

References:

• Herbal drugs and natural bioactive products as potential therapeutics: A review on pro-cognitives and brain boosters perspectives(1)
• Neuroprotective Herbs for the Management of Alzheimer’s Disease(2)
• Memory booster herb (natural cognitive enhancers): An overview **** International Journal of Physiology, Nutrition and Physical Education(3)
• Natural Remedies for Improving Learning and Memory-Review(4)
• Traditional Indian memory enhancer herbs and their medicinal importance(5)
• A review study on medicinal plants used in the treatment of learning and memory impairments(6)