Brain Boosting Herbs & Superfoods

Traditionally Ashwagandha has always been thought to be able to help combat symptoms of depression because it stimulates adrenergic signaling and lessens the chemicals associated with depression, such as clonidine and reserpine. 

There are several studies showing that Ashwagandha slows, stops or reverses neuritic atrophy (loss of neurons), and synaptic loss (the connections between them).

Since Barleygrass has such a magnificent nutrient profile, and is generally used as a great booster for the body in all respects, it can be used to help all aspects of the mind as well.

Barley grass is known to contain vitamins, minerals, anti-oxidants, chlorophyll, live enzymes and amino acids. It is thought to include a balanced ratio of protein, fat, and carbohydrate necessary for a balanced diet.

The discovery of young Barleygrass shoots as a dietary supplement were found by a Japanese scientist Dr. Hagiwara. Through testing and eating Barleygrass himself he found that the young shoots contributed to all aspects of health and wellbeing.

Sweet Basil is a fresh, green and clarifying botanical that has many uses. Traditionally known for treating insect bites. Basil is a brain booster in its own little way, herbaceous top note aroma is great for exhaustion and mental overload.

The main reason why Bee Pollen is thought to be good for the brain because of the amino acids 5-hydroxy L-tryptophan, dl-phenylalanine, L-tyrosine and L-glutamine which are thought to increase the levels of Epinephrine, Dopamine and Serotonin in the brain. These chemicals help our emotional balance and contribute toward feelings of happiness.

Bee pollen is one of nature's superfoods; rich in vitamins, minerals, enzymes, amino acids and anti-oxidants. It is thought to be an immune system builder and also enhances vitality.

Bee Pollen was first used medicinally by the Egyptians and has become a popular supplement used all over the world.

This water loving herb has a reputation for improving memory and mental function whilst also working to relieve anxiety and depression.

Having an antioxidant and neuroprotective action, Brahmi contains saporins and bacosides that interact with the neurotransmitters in the brain raising levels of serotonin, gamma aminobutyric acid (GABA), and acetylcholine. This process affects and regulates the balance of the mind to be more beneficial to our overall mood, memory and cognitive process.

The antioxidant compounds found in Brahmi also seem to work by protecting against the neural oxidative stress associated with Alzheimer’s disease. It’s also believed to stimulate the brain’s own chemicals that protect neural cells.

Brahmi is named after the Hindu God Brahma, who is associated with great intellect and responsible for all "creative forces" in the world. Bacopa monniera is the authentic Brahmi, it is often confused with Hydrocotyle asiatica or Gota Kola which is also known as Brahmi in North India and Thailand.

Here's a surprise, Broccoli is great for the brain! It's all down to a certain chemical found in Broccoli called sulforaphane that protects and heals the membrane that surrounds the brain.

Essential to brain health are junction proteins which decline after brain injury. Sulforaphane helps rebuild these proteins elevating brain defence to peak health.

Broccoli dates back to the 6th century BC where it was meticulously bred from kale by the Etruscans.

Raw Cacao?? A brain booster?? Yes!! Totally and unequivocally. Cacao and chocolate in general has always had the connotation of being able to impart happiness, improve mood and generate a better memory.

So how does Cacao react with the body to do this? Firstly it helps produce more serotonin, increases blood flow to the brain and contains the chemical anandamide which is a known mood improver.

There is a great history of use of Cacao in South America and the beans were once valued so highly that they were used as currency.

Catuaba bark is best known for its ability to enhance sexual function in both men and women which has a lot to do with brain chemistry.

A Brazilian study found that Catuaba bark improved mental acuity and memory and thus helped improve mood. Catuaba also protects the brain with its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory action through helping the body be rid of free radicals.

Catuaba bark comes from a tree that grows in the South American Amazon Rainforest. It has been used for thousands of years as a stimulant and has become a an important economic resource for some Amazonian tribes.

Foods that are high in Omega-3 fatty acids are thought to be very beneficial to brain funtion. Chia seeds are very high in fatty acids and are thought to be excellent in this manner by lubricating the artaries of the brain and keeping it free from amyloid plaques. It is thought that the build-up of brain plaques are one of the contributing factors to Alzheimer's.

Chia Seeds are an ancient food crop used throughout South America and made famous by the Aztecs as one of their most cherished foods.

Chlorella offers a full spectrum of vitamins and minerals with a huge nutritional range and has been described as the perfect food. For the brain it is thought that Chlorella fights oxidization and free radicals whilst also improving the memory through natural supplementation of Vitamin B12. Through this action Chlorella is able to fight the onset of degenerative diseases like Alzheimer’s.

This plant algae is thought to have an alkaline effect on the body. This effect is key in supporting the body recovering from ill health. Chlorella supports the body in the process of detoxification, this helps the muscles, joints, cells, blood and all the bodily systems recover from their toxic load.

Chlorella was first found in 1890 by Dutch microbiologist M. W. Beijerinck. After the discovery of cracking the cell wall, allowing the nutrient content to be absorbed into the body, Chlorella became a major commercial success. 

Raw Virgin Coconut Oil can be very helpful in combatting Alzheimer’s symptoms through its exceptional fatty acid content, as has been demonstrated to good effect in several studies. Rich in medium chain triglycerides (MCTs), these are broken down in the body and become ketones which help in cognitive function by breaking down amyloid plaque in the brain. Amyloid plaques and Neurofibrillary tangle are thought to be major contributors to Alzheimer's disease. These ketones can also be used by brain cells for fuel. 

The Coconut is the fruit of the coconut palm, and 100% pure raw coconut is packed with nutrients and vitality. For many cultures it is a main food source and confers energy, nourishment and wellbeing.

This very popular spicy flavouring in cooking has some wonderful properties that help optimize the brain. When Ginger was used in studies with individuals showing decreases in serotonin, dopamine and the hormones epinephrine and norepinephrine, which all contribute to a healthy memory and mind; it was able to significantly boost neuropathic pathways and help in overall brain function.

Ginger not only restores neuro transmitters responsible for mind balance and happy feelings but also protects the brain from harmful toxins.

In China and India the medical properties of Ginger have always been known and have been part of the culture for more than a thousand years.

In Japan Gingko Biloba has always been used to improve the mind. Recent studies have found that through the improved blood circulation in the brain from Ginkgo that it can protect and make cognitive processes faster. By improving blood flow to the brain, Ginkgo helps to improve memory, concentration and thought processes. Ginkgo may also help cognitive function by enhancing short and long-term memory, although it can take at least six weeks before noticeable improvements occur

Ginkgo Biloba is the oldest surviving tree on earth and is especially revered in Japan where it is grown next to many different Shinto temples.

These little red berries have been found in one study to protect the brain against amyloid beta peptides which is a toxic plaque found in high levels amongst those with Alzheimer’s disease. Some claim that Goji Berries can also help improve memory and learning ability through the same action.

Goji berries / Wolf berries are known as the ultimate tonic for longevity and have been used in traditional Mongolian, Tibetan and Chinese medicine for 1000s of years.

In Asia this herb has always had a long standing as one of the best herbs for the brain. Several studies have shown that Gotu Kola has a complex action on the mind through enhancing neurite-dendrite growth and out branching in key areas of the brain. This action not only makes the mind calmer, sharper and more fluid but also protects brain cells from damaging toxins.

Gotu Kola has been used by monks and Yogis of the Far East for centuries as a means to enhance their concentration during meditation. In Chinese and Indian Ayurvedic medicine it also plays an important role in helping memory loss and fighting aliments of the mind.

Green tea contains caffeine which stimulates the mind improving memory but also a very important amino acid that crosses the protective blood membrane of the brain.

This amino acid, L-theanine, works with caffeine to stimulate the inhibitory neurotransmitter GABA which leads to increased levels of dopamine and effectively calms the mind.

Green Tea has mystical beginnings stemming from the writings of the legendary Chinese Emperor Shennong in around 2737 BC.

A study conducted at the University of Tasmania entitled, “Psychological and Cardiovascular Effects of Guaraná and Yerba Mate: A Comparison with Coffee” found that Guarana produced the greatest alertness and improvement in the performance of mental tasks. Whilst coffee produced a peak in alertness after 30 – 45 minutes, this rapidly fell away in comparison to the effects of Guarana which were still continuing, and increasing, after 150 minutes. This may be due to its naturally occurring caffeine being released slowly, thus maintaining a steady supply of natural energy.

Guarana doesn’t just rely on caffeine to provide energy and stamina – it contains xanthines which have been shown to enhance physical and mental performance. Also containing flavonoids and alkaloids, in clinical studies alkaloids were shown to stimulate the central nervous system, enhancing alertness, mental clarity and reducing fatigue. 

Guarana comes from the Amazon and were cultivated first by the Sateré-Maué Indians who consider the plant a medicine and is heavily integrated into their culture.

It might be a surprise to some people that the mind can benefit from Hemp Seeds. The main reason is that Hemp Seeds have a near perfect ratio of Omega-3 Essential Fatty Acids and the brain uses these substances to keep cognitive function limber.

It has been scientifically proven that concentration and memory are improved when a diet is rich in Essential Fatty Acids. When these substances are lacking in a diet then memory and concentration become hindered.

Hemp has been used as a food source and medicine for thousands of years in Asia and the Middle East. Nearly every part of the plant can be used and is beneficial to humans.

Kelp is incredibly high in iodine, a crucial mineral - without which your brain cannot function properly. A common symptom of iodine deficiency is brain fog, Dr. S. Cunnane suggests that iodine is the primary brain-selective nutrient in human brain evolution, surmising that iodine deficiency is the main cause of decreased intellect. Iodine is a critical nutrient for pregant mothers due to the essential role it plays in fetal brain development.

Kelp is a favourite delicacy of the Japanese and has a healthy tradition within other cultures. It has has been eaten in Japan for thousands of years but came from those who first inhabited the Okinawan Islands. 

This is considered the real Ginseng and the most beneficial of all others in the family. Being an adaptogenic stimulant, Korean Panax Ginseng is able to make you focus and clear fog from the mind making concentration sharper. Another helpful aspect of Panax Ginseng is that it has been proven to lower levels of stress which makes the mind calmer.

The Panax Ginseng plant has been used in Traditional Chinese Medicine for a very long making it one of the oldest known medicinal herbs in the world. Many preparations have Panax Ginseng as an ingredient in TCM.

It has been scientifically proven that concentration and memory are improved when a diet contains enough Omega 3 essential fatty acid. Rich in Omega 3, consuming Flaxseeds can promote optimal brain health. It is especially important that children and older people get enought Omega 3 - this will ensure proper brain growth and funtion in children and age related mental decline in the elderly. 

Linseeds have been cultivated since the Neolithic period and have been used as a food source for just as long. Linen and flax oil both come from this plant which is why they been so desirable throughout history.

Also known as "Nature's Nutrient for your Neurons", Lion's Mane Mushrooms contain the cyathane derivitives hericenones & erinacines which act as nerve growth factors (NGF).  A small protein that is needed for the maintenance and growth of certain neurons, NGF is crucial to the overall health of the brain and central nervous system. By increasing this growth, it could potentially be possible to slow or reverse cell degeneration in the brain — the main characteristic of diseases like Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s.

Used for 1000's of years in Asia, Buddhist Shaolin monks used the Lion's Mane Mushroom in meditation practices, believing it enhanced their concentration thus enabling them to better cultivate the mystical life force "Qi". 

Maca is a popular integral part of the Peruvian way of life, it is a root vegetable that looks a bit like a turnip and it is put into soups, cakes, breads and drinks in Peru. It is grown high in the Andes at 14,000 ft in very rich soils, so its mineral content is especially high, this makes it a good brain booster.

Myrtle essential oil has clarifying, cleansing, refreshing and uplifting properties. Research shows that the myricetins found in this herb can inhibit the formation of beta-amyloid fibril. It is the formation of this protein in the brain that can lead to the neurotoxicity that causes Alzheimer’s and Dementia.

Diffusing the essential oil in a burner or consuming Myrtle leaves and berries can promote a clear mind and prevent the degradation of neural pathways that can lead to these terrible cognitive disorders.

Pine has a dual purpose for the mind. Firstly, Pine Nuts are a rich source of Omega-3 oils and are one of the best foods to keep the mind limber. Secondly, Pine Resin can be burnt as an incense that has a calming effect to produce a clear, centred and one pointed purpose of mind.  

Pine Nuts were an essential food for some tribes of Native American Indians who stored them as a winter food. 

Pumpkin seeds are rich in essential fatty acids and provide and excellent source of Omega-3 which are a great brain food to keep the mind in good health. Also Pumpkin Seeds are a great source of Magnesium which is thought to have a great calming effect on the mind.

They rich in minerals and B vitamins, this making them a fantastic brain booster. They make a delicious healthy snack and are thought to be good for the urinary tract and for maintaining a healthy heart.

The ancestors of the modern Pumpkin are thought to have been cultivated around 5,500 BC by Native American Indians. Pumpkins come in all kinds of shapes and sizes and aren't just limited to the variety we see today at Halloween.

The Reishi Mushroom is a highly treasured part of Traditional Chinese Medicine and recent studies have found that it can of great benefit to the mind. The chemical properties of Reishi have been found to relax the nervous system, stimulate brain neurons and help production of 'nerve growth factor'. This could make Reishi Mushroom very therapeutic for those suffering from Alzheimer's and Huntington’s disease.

According to legend the Chinese Emperor Ti from the Chin dynasty ordered 300 soldiers and 300 hundred beautiful women to set sail and bring the Reishi mushroom back to his kingdom. This Mushroom was so highly sought after that in China it was exclusively a tonic for the upper classes.

Used for centuries to clear the mind and improve memory, Sage has now been extensively studied and science agrees with the old wives tales. One study found that even the smallest amount of Sage significantly improved memory in comparison with the placebo group. The study concluded that Sage is "capable of acute modulation of cognition in healthy young adults.”

Another study found that certain phytochemicals in Sage are acetylcholinesterase inhibitors which means that it can help with reducing depletion of cholinergic and noncholinergic neurons in the brain. Lessening of these neurons over time leads to a build-up of amyloid plaques that are one of the causes of Alzheimer's disease.

In the 10th century Arab physicians believed sage could impart immortality if it was taken with regularity. The Greeks also had high regard for this herb and used it in many medical concoctions.

Because Sesame Seeds are a fantastic source of Zinc they contribute a great deal to brain health. Zinc is a mineral component that aids the brains defences by driving enzymes and keeping a balance of trace metals in the brain. In this way they are a great food if your mind is feeling sluggish or slow.

Sesame Seeds could have possibly been the first traded edible seed. In the Middle East, where the ancient Assyrians and Babylonians ruled, Sesame Seeds have been found that date back to 3,500 BC.

A potent detoxifier for the brain, Shilajit has been shown to assist the assimilation of nutrients, minerals and oxygen into the brain that support its ability to remove dangerous toxins. Specifically, proteins such as beta-amyloid plaqueand tau which can build up over time and lead to neuronal dysfunction and early cell death. Prolonged build-up of these proteins can eventually lead to the degenerative brain conditions Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s disease.

Shilajit has also been found to inhibit the enzyme that breaks down the neurotransmitter acetylcholine. Acetylcholine is critical for memory, concentration and overall brain function – stress and aging can decrease levels of this important compound. Shilajit works to promote healthy levels of acetylcholine, further protecting the brain from degeneration.

Siberian Ginseng is not actually the same plant as the Korean Panax Ginseng but is very similar in effect. Being an adaptogenic stimulant, Siberian Ginseng calms and focuses the mind through its beneficial phytochemical process of encouraging the adrenal glands to secrete stress fighting hormones. Continued use of Siberian Ginseng balances every aspect of the mind and body.

According to Traditional Chinese Medicine Siberian Ginseng has the characteristic of being able to conduct and nurture 'Chi' making the whole body stronger and more agile.

Spirulina is a blue-green algae and it contains a wide range of valuable nutrients. Firstly it contains 65% easily digested PROTEIN, and 18 amino acids. It is a unique vegetarian complete source of protein and much of its protein has been pre-digested by the algae itself and these enzymes go on to assist in the human digestive and absorption process. This protein source is superior because it also has lower fat, lower cholesterol and no artificial growth booster chemicals like meat and dairy protein. It's complete nutrional profile profile supports the function of the brain, partically know for boosting energy levels and promoting clarity of thought.

Spirulina is the secret to success for vegetarian body-building.

St Johns Wort has a great reputation as being a great herb for the mind. It contains the unique chemicals hypericin, hyperforin, and subtle flavonoids which may interact with brain receptors to make more serotonin, dopamine, and norepinephrine available. These natural chemicals are essential for the mind to feel balanced and calm.

This palnt has been a remedy for many ailments in Europe for centuries. The early Greek and Roman medical practioners Hippocrates, Dioscorides, Theophrastus and Galen all noted St. Johns Wort as a remedy for snake and reptile bite.

Sunflower Seeds are packed with Vitamin E which has proven to be a positive force against Alzheimer’s. It has been scientifically proven that foods rich in vitamin E dramatically aid in helping brain form an effective barrier against harm and degeneration.

The sunflower was first domesticated in Arizona, USA around 3,000 BC by Native American Indians.

One of the great benefits of India's most sacred plant is that it has the ability to effectively combat stress and free the mind making it 'light'. A study has found that continued consumption of Tulsi stimulates the brain in a way that is similar to antidepressant medications.

Tulsi helps protect cells in the body from becoming damaged while detoxifying and breaking down free radicals.

In the medical system of Ayurveda, Tulsi holds a high position for being one of the most helpful all round herbs. According to Hindu mythology the Tulsi plant is the incarnation of the goddess of abundance, Lakshmi.

Turmeric is linked to improved brain function, especially in the areas of memory and attention span - curcumin has been shown to boost levels of the brain hormone BDNF, which increases the growth of new neurons and fights various degenerative processes in the brain.

Recent research indicates that Turmeric also helps to protect the brain against the ravages of Alzheimer's disease. The study found that curcurmin (the active compound in Turmeric) enhanced the immune system's ability to clear away amyloid plaques. Beta-amyloid is a toxic protein that is formed in the brains of Alzheimer's patients when amyloid protein isn't processed properly. 

Used for centuries as a popular curry ingredient, it's worth noting that India has the lowest dementia rates in the world.

Wakame has healthy levels of; Vitamin A, C, E and K. It also has good levels of Niacin, Pantothenic Acid and Phosphorus, and excellent levels of Riboflavin, Folate, Calcium, Iron, Magnesium, Copper and Manganese. As you can see its rich in everything which your brain wants, thus making it a fantastic brain booster.

Bearing a striking resemblance to tiny brains, Walnuts are packed with brain boosting nutrients and are recognised as one of the ultimate brain foods. They contain a number of neuroprotective compounds, with the highest amounts of Omega 3 of any nut – this fatty acid is critical to the health and smooth functioning of this most important organ. Some recent research has found that Walnuts can also increase neurogenesis – the growth of new brain cells – a crucial aspect of maintaining brain health. They have been shown to improve the signalling amongst neurons within the brain and various properties within Walnuts could possibly prevent neurodegeneration, a process which can lead to a whole host of disorders.

Walnuts are literally loaded with brain enhancing nutrients such as the “morale vitamin” B1 and the “mood vitamin” B6. Other neuroprotective nutrients are; gallic acid, vitamin E isomers, melatonin, folate and polyphenols.

Archaeological evidence has found that Neolithic peoples were consuming and cultivating walnuts 7,000 years ago but it was the ancient Greeks and Romans that spread this nut throughout Europe.

The nutritional profile of Wheatgrass is literally stunning. It's good for boosting energy and vitality levels and when it comes to the brain; it effectively combats mind fatigue, supports detoxification essential for the mind, eliminates unhealthy bacteria, balancing ph levels in blood, treating immune system deficiencies and aiding cell regeneration.

The first investigations into the properties of Wheatgrass occurred in the 1930’s when the Agricultural Chemist Dr. Charles Schnaber observed hens having a preference to young Wheatgrass shoots over all other food stuffs.