Many people are interested in improving their memory, both healthy individuals and those with memory-related diseases like Alzheimer's, dementia and other cognitive impairments. Although a wide range of treatments and medications are available for memory improvement, certain medicinal herbs may also help. Some herbs that improve memory act directly on the brain and nervous system, while others affect the cardiovascular system to increase blood flow to the brain.
Ginkgo Biloba
Most clinical trials have found that taking ginkgo biloba supplements can treat age-related cognitive disorder (ARCD) by improving memory, states the University of Michigan Health System (UMHS). Taking 40 to 50 mg of the standardized ginkgo extract three times per day can treat the memory-related conditions of early Alzheimer's disease and vascular dementia, states the University of Maryland Medical Center (UMMC).
Huperzia Serrata
Extracted from the herb Huperzia serrata, the chemical huperzine A could improve memory, says the UMMC. Studies conducted in China found that taking an average dose of 200 mcg of huperzine A twice daily can improve memory function in patients with vascular dementia and Alzheimer's disease, notes the UMMC. Another clinical trial determined that taking 100 to 150 mcg of huperzine A two to three times daily for four to six weeks improved minor memory loss in patients with ARCD--more so than the prescription medication piracetam, according to the UMHS.
Bacopa
An extract made from the bacopa plant's (Bacopa monnieri) leaves can improve brain function, learning and memory in healthy individuals, notes the UMMC. No scientific studies have been conducted on individuals with dementia, Alzheimer's or ARCD, but one study of healthy individuals found that taking 300 mg of bacopa per day for 12 weeks improved cognition, the UMMC explains. Although the results of clinical trials conducted on bacopa have been mixed, most have found some level of memory and cognitive improvement after taking on average 300 mg per day of the herbal supplement, states the UMHS.
American Ginseng
American ginseng (Panax quinquefolium) can improve memory by increasing blood flow to the brain, according to the UMMC. Studies performed at the Chinese Academy of Medical Science in Beijing found that the ginsenosides contained in ginseng "increase protein synthesis and activity of neurotransmitters in the brain," according to Herbnet.com.
Vinca Minor
Vinpocetine is a chemical extracted from the plant Vinca minor, which may improve memory by increasing blood flow to the brain and improve the brain's use of oxygen, says the UMMC. Several double-blind clinical trials on vinpocetine supplementation have been performed, most of which found that taking 30 or 60 mg per day of the extract improved symptoms related to dementia and ARCD, notes the UMHS.
Lemon Balm
Medical studies have discovered that taking lemon balm (Melissa officinalis) extract improves memory performance, according to the Georgetown University Medical Center. The UMMC cites a study that discovered taking 60 drops per day of lemon balm extract helped to improve cognitive function in patients with mild to moderate Alzheimer's disease.
