Herbs & Memory

Most memory loss is part of the normal aging process, according to the "Gale Encyclopedia of Alternative Medicine," but that doesn't make it any less frustrating. Herbal remedies for treating memory loss are a form of naturopathic medicine, promoting a holistic alternative to conventional drugs. While some herbs may be beneficial in boosting your memory, the FDA does not oversee the production or sale of these remedies, so there is no guarantee of effectiveness, quality or safety.

Function

After the age of 25, the human body stops producing the new nerve cells that are vital for memory and cognitive function, according to the "Gale Encyclopedia." The average person loses nerve cells at the rate of 1 percent per year, resulting in an average loss of one-third of peak memory capacity by the age of 70. Lack of oxygen, nutritional deficiencies, depression, illness and damage to the nerve cells from free radicals may increase nerve cell loss. Different herbs may offer relief from one or more of these causes.

Herbal Remedies

The University of Maryland Medical Center lists American ginseng, Asian ginseng and Siberian ginseng as potentially beneficial in the treatment of memory loss. Additional herbs include green tea, rosemary and gingko biloba. The "Gale Encyclopedia" adds gotu kola and brahmi to the list of memory-boosting herbal remedies.

Benefits

Ginkgo biloba and gotu kola may boost memory by increasing blood circulation in the brain, advises the "Gale Encyclopedia." They may also slow down nerve cell loss and improve vessel health. Brahmi, an east Indian herb, may increase memory retention, while the ginseng varieties may enhance learning abilities. Green tea and rosemary are antioxidants and may reduce the nerve cell damage from free radicals. Clinical studies confirming these benefits are lacking, so consult a medical professional before treating memory loss with herbs.

Herbal Methods

Herbs are available in health food stores in tea, capsule, tincture and tablet forms. Follow the dosage instructions on the package. While most memory-boosting herbs are safe, do not use ginseng if you have high blood pressure or heart disease, advises the "Gale Encyclopedia." Discontinue the use of any herbal remedy if you experience side effects, and notify your doctor.

Considerations

You may not notice improvement in your memory for a few weeks, according to Yoga Journal. Because sudden or very noticeable memory loss may be a symptom of a medical condition, chemical poisoning, an injury, depression or stress, see your doctor for a diagnosis and use herbs as a supplement to your doctor's recommended treatment program.