An occasional memory lapse happens to everyone no matter their age. However, memory loss is a natural part of the aging process. As you get older, it becomes more challenging to learn new material and retain it. Memory problems can come on suddenly or develop slowly; they can be temporary or permanent. Memory loss can also be the result of impaired concentration or a disease process, such as Alzheimer's or stroke, affecting your short-term memory or putting you at a loss for words. There is no cure that restores memory, but ask your physician about herbs that may help improve it.
Ginkgo Biloba
Ginkgo biloba, also called the maidenhair tree, is an ancient tree whose seeds and fan-shaped leaves have been used as an herbal remedy for thousands of years. Ginkgo improves circulation, especially to the brain, and acts to increase the brain's ability to utilize glucose, the body's main energy source. This results in better oxygenation of the brain, which helps improve memory and concentration, particularly in those with Alzheimer's disease. You should only take ginkgo under your doctor's supervision, as it can cause dizziness and diarrhea at higher doses. Don't take ginkgo if you are pregnant or nursing or have problems with blood clotting.
Gotu Kola
Gotu kola, or Centella asiatica, is a perennial creeping vine that produces fan-shaped leaves that are used medicinally. Gotu kola is not related to the kola nut and contains no caffeine. Native to parts of North America and India, it works to improve circulation to the brain and extremities. A 2008 clinical study published in "Journal of Ethnopharmacology" concluded that gotu kolu was effective in enhancing working memory in 28 Alzheimer's patients. Gotu kola leaves can be added to a salad or taken in a tea. Do not take gotu kola if you have epilepsy or are pregnant.
Rosemary
Rosemary, known scientifically as Rosmarinus officinalis, is a popular herb used as a culinary spice and medicinally. The dried leaves and twigs of this evergreen shrub are used in herbal preparations that are taken internally; its volatile oil should only be used externally. In her book "Prescription for Herbal Healing," certified nutritional consultant Phyllis Balch says that rosemary contains substances that impede the breakdown of the brain chemical acetylcholine, which allows the nerve cells responsible for memory and reason to better communicate with each other. Take rosemary under your physician's guidance, as high doses can produce side effects such as muscle spasms and diarrhea.
Soy
The soybean, a popular diet staple of vegetarians, also possesses some qualities that are beneficial for memory loss. Soy contains isoflavones and soy lecithin, substances that exhibit strong antioxidant properties. "Prescription for Herbal Healing" states that the estrogen-like properties of soy isoflavones appear to reduce amyloid plaque formation in the brains of Alzheimer's patients, slowing memory loss, while soy lecithin provides the brain with an additional source of phosphatidylcholine, which strengthens brain cells to help reduce memory loss. Soy lecithin may be beneficial for improving memory in smokers, and for lowering blood pressure in those with high blood pressure.
References
- MedlinePlus: Memory Loss
- "Prescription for Herbal Healing"; Phyllis A. Balch; 2002
- AltMD: Gingko Biloba
- AltMD: Gotu Kola
- "Journal of Ethnopharmacology"; Positive Modulation of Cognition and Mood in the Healthy Elderly Volunteer Following the Administration of Centella Asiatica; J. Wattanathorn, et al.; March 2008
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Rosemary; Steven D. Ehrlich, NMD; March 2009
