Herbs that will serve as a tonic for your mind, will also help your entire body as they will promote healthy circulation and vitality. Tonics also help support your immune system and improve the overall functioning of your organs, says herbalist David Hoffmann in his book "The New Holistic Herbal." Some examples of herbs that help tone the body and improve memory include ginkgo, gotu kola, rosemary and ginseng.
Gotu Kola
Gotu kola, also known botanically as Centella asiatica, is a member of the Umbelliferae, or parsley, family. The entire herb is used as a tonic for the body and is known to promote mental clarity and improve memory, says acupuncturist Michael Tierra in his book "The Way of Chinese Herbs." It has a slightly acrid taste, which according to Simon Mills in his book "The Dictionary of Modern Herbalism," means is has histamine properties that can raise body temperature and increase blood flow to the the brain. It can also be used to treat mental and neurological disturbances and is considered a powerful adaptogen in Indian medicine. Adaptogen herbs help the body adapt to physical, emotional and mental stress.
Ginseng
Panax ginseng, commonly referred to simply as ginseng, is a member of the Araliaceae family. According to Hoffmann in his book "The Complete Illustrated Holistic Herbal," it improves mental and physical performance by increasing vitality and raising lowered blood pressure. The root of ginseng can be chewed, or you can boil it in its powdered form for at least 10 minutes and drink it as a tonic three times per day.
Rosemary
Rosemary, known botanically as Rosmarinus officinalis, is a member of the Lamiaceae, or mint, family. It is used in the form of essential oil as a stimulant to the body and mind and has a constituent called Rosmarol, which is high in antioxidant activity. According to acupuncturist David Crow in his book "The Pharmacy of Flowers," rosemary is an energizing tonic that alleviates mental lethargy and promotes memory. Place a couple of rosemary essential oil drops in a vaporizer to infuse the air with its medicinal properties.
Ginkgo
Botanically known as Ginkgo biloba, ginkgo is a member of the Ginkgoaceae family. According to herbalist Rosemary Gladstar in her book "Family Herbal -- A Guide to Living Life with Energy, Health and Vitalilty," ginkgo leaves have a historical use in enhancing memory and vitality. Gladstar recommends it as a regular tonic for the body as well, for it improves circulation. Use ginkgo consistently to receive its full benefits for both body and mind.
References
- "The New Holistic Herbal"; David Hoffmann; 1995
- "The Way of Chinese Herbs"; Michael Tierra L.Ac., O.M.D.; 1998
- "The Dictionary of Modern Herbalism"; Simon Y. Mills M.A., M.N.I.M.H.;1988
- "The Complete Illustrated Holistic Herbal"; David Hoffmann; 1996
- "The Pharmacy of Flowers"; David Crowe L.Ac.; 2005
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