As you age, your body produces less brain cells and less chemicals needed for the cells of your brain to operate properly. As a result, you may have difficulty in retrieving information, especially the kind that is stored in your short-term or immediate memory. Medical conditions such as depression and dementia can cause problems with remembering, as can certain over-the-counter and prescription medications. Decreased blood flow to the brain that is characteristic of atherosclerosis can also impair your memory. Fortunately, supplements are available that may help increase memory. Check with your doctor before using any supplement.
Ginkgo Biloba
Ginkgo biloba is a supplement used to treat problems with circulation and memory, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. European medicine has embraced ginkgo biloba as a treatment for dementia, but while it was originally believed the benefits were due to increased circulation, it may also be due to a neuro-protective effect. Ginkgo has also been found to help people living with Alzheimer's disease, a degenerative condition of the brain. Gingko administered to these patients has been shown to improve memory, increase social interaction and decrease depression. UMMC recommends taking a dosage of 240 mg a day for memory problems.
Ginseng
The term ginseng refers to more than one herb, and several of these have been found to help increase memory. A study published in the November 2000 issue of "Psychopharmacology" found that administration of a combination of ginkgo biloba and Panax ginseng enhanced memory. Additionally, UMMC explains that Panax ginseng is used to improve immunity, decrease cancer risk and increase cognitive ability. Ginseng is available in capsule, extract and tea forms at your local health food store.
Green Tea
Green tea has been used in Asian cultures for thousands of years as a stimulant and diuretic, for healing and to improve cardiovascular health. UMMC explains that green tea may help decrease the risk of developing atherosclerosis, which is the formation of plaque in the arteries. This condition can lead to a decrease in oxygen supply to the brain, causing memory problems. In addition, drinking three cups of green tea daily may help to reduce the risk of developing cardiovascular disease, according to UMMC.
Rosemary
Rosemary is an herb that is used in cooking, but it also has health-promoting properties. This versatile herb, according to UMMC, is a natural antioxidant that can carry damaging substances out of your body. The oil from rosemary, which contains the scent of the herb, has been found to decrease anxiety and increase memory. This effect is sometimes experienced when rosemary oil is used in conjunction with other stimulating herbs like mint. You can steep fresh or dried rosemary and inhale the vapors gently, drink it as a tea or add it to foods.
References
- FamilyDoctor: Memory Loss With Aging: What's Normal, What's Not
- University of Maryland Medical Center; Ginkgo Biloba; Steven D. Ehrlich, NMD; March 2009
- "Psychopharmacology"; The Memory Enhancing Effects of a Ginkgo Biloba/Panax Ginseng Combination in Healthy Middle-Aged Volunteers; K.A. Wesnes, et al.; November 2000
- University of Maryland Medical Center; Rosemary; Steven D. Ehrlich, NMD; March 2009
- University of Maryland Medical Center; American Ginseng; Steven D. Ehrlich, NMD; March 2010
- University of Maryland Medical Center; Green Tea; David Zieve, M.D., and David R. Elt; September 2009
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