The practice of using herbs to Increase brain function and calm nerves has ancient roots in cultures around the world. For instance, employing lavender sachets to soothe anxiety and encourage restful sleep is not just folklore but has been clinically confirmed, explains the University of Maryland Medical Center. Herbalists use adaptogens like Asian ginseng, ashwagandha and eleuthero to increase clarity of mind and the body's ability to handle stress. Herbs should only be taken under the supervision of a physician.
Adaptogens to Alleviate Stress
Adaptogens are nontoxic natural substances from certain plants that help you adapt to stress and that strengthen your immune system. They normalize and balance the body, increase resistance to disease and regulate metabolism, according to the 2007 book "Adaptogens: Herbs for Strength, Stamina and Stress Relief." Commonly used adaptogens include Asian ginseng, licorice, ginger root and eleuthero. Also in this category are general tonic herbs like astragalus and schisandra, which act to increase vitality, longevity and immune function. Eleuthero is frequently used to improve memory and cognitive functioning, although more scientific research is needed. Only take herbs under a doctor's supervision.
Herbs to Soothe Nerves
As UMMC reports, clinical studies have found that passionflower, an herb indigenous to the United States and used for insomnia and seizures, reduces anxiety in pre-surgery patients. Other calming herbs like lemon balm, hops, chamomile and valerian are often combined with passionflower, creating a compound to relieve sleeplessness and anxiety. Scientists conjecture that passionflower heightens levels of a chemical named GABA, which slows brain activity and incurs relaxation. Consult a doctor before taking herbs.
Gotu Kola: Ayuveda's Premier Brain Tonic
Gotu kola tops the list of Ayurvedic herbs employed as general brain tonics, notes "The Chopra Center Herbal Handbook: Forty Natural Prescriptions for Perfect Health." A perennial plant native to India, the ancient Ayurvedic medical system prescribes gotu kola to increase memory and clarity as well as the ability to retain knowledge and aid concentration. Tea made from the dried leaves is often used for headaches, indigestion and to aid restful sleep. Check with your doctor before you add gotu kola to your health regimen.
Cautions and Considerations
Although botanical medicine is a time-honored tradition, it is wise to use care when taking herbs. Some herbs have strong effects and may interact adversely with prescription and over-the-counter medicines. For instance, passionflower may increase the effects of anticonvulsants, barbiturates and insomnia medications. Lavender, another sedative, needs to be used with care if you take prescription narcotics or anti-anxiety medications, such as lorazepam and diazepam, observes UMMC. Asian ginseng is contraindicated if you are taking certain heart, narcotic, blood-thinning or psychiatric drugs.
References
- "The Chopra Center Herbal Handbook: Forty Natural Prescriptions for Perfect Health"; Deepak Chopra, M.D., et al.; 2000
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Siberian Ginseng
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Passionflower
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Lavender
- "Adaptogens: Herbs for Strength, Stamina and Stress Relief"; David Winston, et al.; 2007
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