Mental sharpness refers to your ability to process information. It also involves the ability to recall information for work tasks and academic performance. Several factors, including diet, exercise and amount of sleep, affect mental sharpness. Certain herbs may also affect cognitive performance. Check with your physician before taking any herb for mental sharpness.
Chinese Moss
Huperzia serrata, or Chinese moss, is an herb that grows in temperate areas of China. A chemical compound found in Chinese moss, called huperzine A, may improve cognitive function and memory, according to Gale Maleskey, author of "Nature's Medicines." This chemical may improve production of acetylcholine, a neurotransmitter chemical that is responsible for communication between brain cells. Chinese moss may be particularly effective for slowing loss of mental sharpness associated with Alzheimer's disease. Although Chinese moss has no known side effects, contact your doctor before taking this herb.
Ginkgo Biloba
Chinese healers recommended ginkgo biloba as a treatment for asthma more than 5,000 years ago. Ayurvedic physicians in India believed that this herb could add years to your life. Ginkgo biloba may also help improve mental sharpness, according to Michael Castleman, author of "The New Healing Herbs." It may increase blood circulation in your brain, improving the delivery of proteins, oxygen and vitamins necessary for maintaining healthy brain cells. Talk to your doctor if you plan to take ginkgo biloba. This herb may cause irritability and sleep disturbances and may interfere with blood clotting.
Gotu Kola
Indian Ayurvedic healers recommended gotu kola as a remedy for leprosy. Traditional Chinese healers used this herb to treat cold and flu symptoms. Gotu kola may also improve blood circulation to your brain, according to Phyllis Balch, author of "Prescription for Herbal Healing." This may help improve memory and learning functions. Check with your doctor before using gotu kola to treat loss of mental sharpness. In rare cases, this herb may cause skin rashes.
Garlic
Although garlic is best known for its culinary uses, this herb has been used for medicinal purposes for more than 3,000 years. Ancient Egyptians believed that garlic could improve physical strength and increase longevity. Allicin, the primary chemical compound in garlic, may also increase blood circulation to improve cognitive function, according to Castleman. Garlic also contains vitamin C, an antioxidant that may help reduce cognitive impairment caused by free radical damage. Consult your physician before taking garlic as it may interfere with blood clotting.
References
- "Nature's Medicines"; Gale Maleskey; 1999
- "The New Healing Herbs"; Michael Castleman; 2010
- "Prescription for Herbal Healing"; Phyllis A. Balch, C.N.C.; 2002
Member Comments