The original pharmaceutical industry was founded upon the healing properties of plants but with the introduction of more industrial and modern pharmaceutical practices in the early 1900s, most drugs have become synthetic and unfortunately, many natural remedies have been dismissed in Westernized medicine. Herbalism is a part of other medical systems all over the world and with good reason as there are typically less adverse side effects, they work effectively to treat all types of health conditions, and they are a more sustainable pharmaceutical option. While there may be an herb for every physical, mental, or spiritual issue, there is an increasing urgency to examine alternative treatments for improving brain health in order to curb the global rise in mental health conditions. Check out our list of the 15 best herbs that boost brain health!
Lavender
Lavender has been shown to relieve anxiety, depression, headaches, and insomnia. Lavender has also demonstrated the ability to reduce blood pressure. Aromatherapy is the most popular way to receive brain boosting benefits from this herb but teas and tonics are also available to provide the same health outcomes. Lavender oil should not be ingested orally as it can be toxic and it should be used with caution during pregnancy along with other essential oils.
Ashwagandha
Ashwagandha has been used for centuries in ayurvedic medicine, one of the oldest traditional medicine systems in India, and is well known for its ability to rejuvenate the nervous system. This herb can alleviate stress by reducing cortisol levels, work as an antidepressant, and boost memory. Supplements for this herb can either be in liquid form as the root extract or in capsule form. Ashwagandha is not recommended for children, pregnant or breast-feeding women. If you want to read up on other adaptogens, read our article here.
Chamomile
Chamomile is one of the most popular herbal teas and is already widely accepted for its medicinal uses as a remedy for stress, stomach cramps, and insomnia. A recent study showed that chamomile can also help regulate menstrual related mood disorders. Chamomile should not be consumed if allergic to ragweed or similar plants.
Chasteberry
Chasteberry is considered an estrogenic plant and has been historically used to regulate hormone related symptoms of menstruation and menopause. In fact, chasteberry, among other estrogenic plants, have been investigated as an alternative hormone replacement therapy for women after menopause to prevent memory loss and neurodegenerative conditions such as Alzheimer’s from occurring. Chasteberry can be found in extract or capsule form and should not be taken if pregnant.
Ginkgo
The gingko tree was planted as a sacred and ornamental tree in China and its seeds and leaves were first used for medicinal purposes in traditional Chinese medicine. Ginkgo has antioxidant properties that improve brain functioning by providing tissue oxygenation and enhanced circulation. Because of its neuroprotective effect, ginkgo has been examined in a recent study as a possible natural treatment for Alzheimer’s disease. Gingko should not be used by people with bleeding disorders.
Gotu kola
Gotu kola is another herb used in ayurvedic medicine for the primary purpose of improving circulation and wound healing. However, gotu kola has also been shown to aid in relaxation, depression and memory improvement. In a study, gotu kola was shown to be more effective than folic acid in improving cognition after a stroke. This herb should not be taken during pregnancy or by people with a hyperactive thyroid.
Kava
Kava is a root that has been used by Pacific Islanders for centuries as a calming and slightly hypnotic treatment. Recently, Western culture has included and marketed kava in recreational beverages to help induce a physical and mental tranquility. Kava should be used with caution as it may cause drowsiness, impair liver function with prolonged consumption, and interact with anti-anxiety drugs.
Passionflower
Passionflower is nature’s tranquilizer with slight sedative effects that can combat anxiety, hyperactivity, muscle tension and spasms, and nervous insomnia. Passionflower can be found in extract form or can be in a dehydrated form to add as a supplement to tea. This herb may cause sleepiness and may enhance the effects of alcohol and some medications.
Feverfew
Feverfew is a medicinal plant commonly used to treat headaches and migraines by inhibiting the release of prostaglandins and serotonin, both migraine inducing substances. For people suffering from chronic headaches, feverfew is a much less invasive treatment with fewer adverse side effects than common over the counter medications. Feverfew should not be used in combination with other migraine or blood thinning medications and may cause mouth sores if the leaves are chewed.
Ginseng
Ginseng is the herbal “cure-all” remedy that can treat anything from constipation to circulatory problems. Ginseng enhances overall energy, reduces stress, and can even help with withdrawal from addictive drugs and alcohol by promoting liver function. There are different types of ginseng but all contain similar properties. Ginseng can be found in teas, capsules, powders, and liquid concentrates. Panax ginseng may cause high blood pressure and should be used with caution.
Sage
Sage is not just for burning and spiritual cleansing, but it is also a powerful stimulant for the central nervous system. Research has shown potential cognitive benefits of sage in Alzheimer’s disease and dementia. Sage interferes with the absorption of iron so supplements should not be taken at the same time. Sage is not advised to consume by individuals with seizure disorders or those with high blood pressure.
St. John’s Wort
St. John’s Wort is nature’s antidepressant with innate mood-elevating properties. There have been several clinical trials that have shown positive results in managing depression but there have also been many adverse side effects documented. St. John’s Wort should not be mixed with other antidepressant medications and may lower the effectiveness of many prescription medications.
Valerian
Valerian is the natural Valium, producing the same effects of relaxation, reduced anxiety, decreased muscle tension and insomnia. Valerian has been shown to increase sleeping time and reduce the number of times people wake up at night. Valerian is available in capsule or tincture form.
Green tea
Green tea is a widely consumed beverage characterized by its earthy and slightly bitter taste. Known for its antioxidant properties, green tea combats aging, mental fatigue, and brain health decline. To receive the antioxidant benefits of green tea, it must be consumed without milk as milk decreases the bioavailability of the nutrients in green tea. Green tea does contain a small level of caffeine which may induce anxiety if it is consumed in excess.
Rosemary
Rosemary has been linked to brain health for centuries with this idea originating back to ancient Greece. Studies have shown rosemary’s ability to increase the speed of memory recollection and decrease mental fatigue through oral consumption. Rosemary has also been used in aromatherapy to stimulate arousal and improve mood. Rosemary can be toxic in large quantities and should not be taken while pregnant.
