Many herbal remedies are touted as memory boosters, and are thought to improve your mental alertness and clarity. However, some herbs have side effects, and loss of memory is, in some cases, among them. Some herbs interact with other herbs or medications to cause these effects, and others appear to cause these effects on their own. If you are concerned about adverse effects of herbal remedies you're considering, consult your doctor.
Ma Huang
Also known as ephedra, ma huang was once commonly used in weight loss products before being banned. Ma huang is a central nervous system stimulant and has neurological side effects, reports the American Society on Aging. Among these are memory loss, nerve damage, psychosis and stroke. Ma huang also increases risk of elevated blood pressure, rapid heart rate, heart palpitations and heart attack. Although this herbal remedy is generally not available, some products continue to claim it as an ingredient.
Betel Nut
Betel nut, also known as areca catechu L., is an herbal agent commonly used for various purposes in Asian and Pacific Rim countries, according to the Tobacco-Related Disease Research Program. Considered a central nervous system stimulant, it is used as a digestive aid, antiseptic, aphrodisiac and deworming agent. It is usually chewed along with spices and sometimes tobacco. While it causes a short-term euphoric feeling, it has side effects. Some symptoms of betel nut toxicity include vomiting, diarrhea, urinary incontinence, fever, flushing, confusion, difficulty in walking, anxiety and memory lapse, reports the Tobacco-Related Disease Research Program.
Caffeine and Citrus Aurantium
Since the restriction of ephedra in diet pills, a similar herbal ingredient has fallen into common use. According to Mayo Clinic, citrus aurantium contains synephrine, which is structurally similar to ephedra. When used in combination with caffeine in diet pills, synephrine may increase the risk of ischemic stroke. The Mayo Clinic cited a case study led by Nicole C. Bouchard in which memory loss and unsteady gait were symptoms seen in an otherwise healthy 38-year-old patient taking a diet pill containing synephrine and caffeine.
