The Top 4 Ayurveda Herbs to Protect and Sharpen Your Brain

Ayurveda (Indian) Herbs

Ayurveda is an ancient medicine system used in India, based on natural and holistic practices, and informs the region’s healthcare today.

It’s more than 5,000 years old, and traditionally combines the use of plants and herbs, along with a healthy lifestyle.

It may include elements of natural medicine along with yoga, meditation, massage, and other mind-body activities.

In Ayurveda, all things in the universe, dead or alive, are connected. When all things in your life are in balance, you enjoy good health. If things are askew, you develop disease and related symptoms.

When things are out of balance, holistic practitioners focus on cleansing the system of negative elements. Herbs are one type of treatment used in this traditional medicine.

Ayurveda methods are still practiced regularly in India. These herbs are commonly used in India today, as well as in other cultures, and are known to benefit brain health, focus, and prevent disease.

BACOPA

The Thinking Person’s Herb

Bacopa, sometimes called water hyssop, or Brahmi after the god Brahma, is a traditional Indian medicinal plant. It’s historically used to bless newborns due to its renowned ability to increase intellect. Today it’s known for treating memory, ADHD, and Alzheimer’s disease.

Bacopa is often confused with gotu kola, also referred to as Brahmi. While the plants are similar, they work a bit differently.

Bacopa is commonly used as a supplement to bring the body’s functions into balance. One of the plant’s compounds, bacosides, is responsible for many of its positive effects.

One academic study found that a daily bacopa supplement improved visual processing, learning, and memory among healthy adults, compared with a placebo group.

The researchers in the study believe the compound may be helpful for learning in situations that require input from the external environment (Stough et al., 2001). This would make it a good candidate for treating attention deficit-hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).

Similarly, bacopa has been found to improve cognitive processing, working memory, and attention (Peth- Nui et al., 2012).

The use of bacopa for Alzheimer’s disease is in early stages, but studies have shown that it can protect the prefrontal cortex and hippocampus, and may prevent damage that occurs in the process of this disease (Chaudhari, 2017).

If you’re looking to help a child or teen struggling with memory, attention, or hyperactivity, bacopa may be your new go-to. Numerous studies have shown it helps with visual and verbal memory and cognitive function, with no side effects in most participants (Kean et al., 2016).

HOW TO USE
Bacopa is commonly taken as a capsule or in powder form. Typical doses from supplements are 100 to 500 mg per day. It’s also available as drops or shakes for kids and you’ll find it as an ingredient in some teas.

GUDUCHI

The Heavenly Elixir

Tinospora cordifolia, known as Guduchi, is a well-known herbal treatment in India, dating back to ancient times. It’s a climber plant, common in many residential areas. It is mentioned in ancient myths, including a famous story where Lord Indra planted guduchi following a prayer for help.

It’s known by many other names, including the “heavenly elixir,” and it’s commonly used to treat diabetes, to manage stress, for respiratory conditions, and as an anti-aging herb.

Some scientists believe this natural treatment may provide protection for the brain against neurodegenerative diseases like Alzhiemer’s.

In one study guduchi extract helped prevent damage to the brain caused by inflammation and membrane damage (Sharma & Kaur, 2018). Academic research is in early stages.

HOW TO USE
Gudichi is most often used in powder made from the stem, mixed in water and honey, or boiled down. Many recommendations include taking around two grams once daily. You’ll also find it as an ingredient in certain teas.

SHANKHPUSHPI

The Brain Tonic

Shankhpushpi is an ancient Indian nootropic, often used for the nervous system in Ayurveda medicine. This flowering herb may help with memory, depression, anxiety, and other brain-related struggles. There are four varieties, including Canscora decussata schult, Clitoria ternatea, Convolvulus pluricaulis, and Evolvulus alsinoides.

Modern studies have begun to test these potential benefits. In one early study, Evolvulus alsinoides in particular was found to benefit memory recall. This may be due to compounds present including steroids, coumarins and flavonoids (Sethiya, 2019). Further studies are needed to confirm this early research.

HOW TO USE
Shankhpushpi can be consumed as a syrup, powder, or juice. The powder form is generally taken as 1⁄2 teaspoon, once to twice per day.

HOLY BASIL

Elixir Of Life

Holy basil, or tulsi, is another all-around healthy herb used for many centuries in India. It’s also called the elixir of life. This incredible plant can help with inflammation, bacteria, stress, concentration, toxins, and much more. It works to both calm nerves and maintain energy. As its name suggests, it’s often used in spiritual practices as well.

Holy basil is also used to manage blood glucose, blood pressure, and to help with psychological stress. All of its positive effects help with memory, mood, and cognitive functions. It’s often recommended as a natural treatment for attention difficulties (Cohen, 2014).

HOW TO USE
Holy basil is often taken as a tea, and experts recommend around three to five cups per day. It’s also available as an extract and essential oil.

For 16 more herbs to help you preserve brain function, you can download a no-cost copy of our friend Brian Vaszily’s new guide…

>>20 TOP HERBS TO ACHIEVE YOUR CLEAREST SHARPEST BRAIN