Best herbs for memory improvement

© BR Publishing 2013. All rights reserved. www.brainreference.com
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BR Publishing
HERBS FOR
MEMORY
IMPROVEMENT
THIS BOOK IS MEANT AS A PRESENTATION OF HERBS THAT HELP ENHANCE
ONE’S MEMORY. IT PROVIDES INFORMATION ABOUT SPECIFIC PLANTS SO
PEOPLE CAN MAKE THE RIGHT CHOICES, DEPENDING ON THEIR INTENTIONS

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Table of Contents
Preface....................................................................................................................................................xi
Part 1: How does memory function and why is it important to take care of it?
1: What is “memory”? ......................................................................................................................... 3
2: How is it organized?.............................................................................................................................4.
3.:What type of memory problems can people develop? ..................................................................4-6
Part 2: Herbs that might help improve one’s memory
1: How can plants help with daily stress? ........................................................................................... 7
2:Top plants that stimulate memory…………………………………………………………………………………………………8
1. Ginkgo Biloba…………………………………………………………………………………………………..….…………..8
2. Ginseng…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………...9
3. Sage………………………………………………………………………………………………………….……………………..9
4. Rosemary…………………………………………………………………………….………………………………………..10
5. Gotu Kola…………………………………………………………………………………………………….…………..10-11
6. Hawthorne …………………………………………………………………………………………………………………..11
7. Other herbs……………………………………………………………………………………………………..……………12
3. A conclusion………………………………………………………………………………………………………………..…………….13

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Preface
This book is offered by the BR Publishing team which is composed of individuals specialized in the area
of nutritional supplementation that includes ingredients, manufacturing processes, and ways in which
they affect the human body with both positive and negative sides.
Description
Has anyone ever told you that you have a “bad memory?” Did you actually think at some point that your
memory is one of the worst because you can’t even remember your parent’s birthday or what you
promised your best friend? These are situations that may happen and some people might gets
frustrated due to having a bad memory.
So, how do you improve your memory, particularly if you have a bad one? The answer is that there are a
lot of things that you can do in order to better your memory, but this eBook focuses on plants that can
help in these types of situations. Furthermore, you’re going to find out more about the required
quantities of each and the way in which these plants should be consumed. Additionally, some memory
diseases will be mentioned as well as some natural cures for them, even though people should be aware
of the fact that, in the majority of cases, these natural approaches weren’t sufficient. However, opinions
are divided. While some plants will be presented in detail, others will only be mentioned. That doesn’t
mean they’re not important, but the limited space determines us to be more selective.
Just take a chair, sip your tea and enjoy this presentation that desires to offer you reliable information
about herbs.

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Part 1:
How does memory function and why is it
important to take care of it?
1. What is “memory”?
Psychology describes memory as the process in which information is encoded, kept and finally retrieved.
The encoding stage allows the information that comes from outside to get to the human senses as
physical and chemical stimuli. Throughout this stage, the information is changed so it can be later stored
into memory. The storage represents the part that allows the maintenance of information for enlarged
periods of time. Therefore, when we try to remember something, the information is located and then
returned into the consciousness. In some cases the retrieval of information is easy, in others it’s more
difficult, depending on the type of information as well as times of usage.
However, the process behind it is more complicated and there are a series of chemicals involved. What
really happens is the information received from outside through one’s senses is encoded so that the
brain can understand and processes it further.
There is something called “The Stage Model of Memory” which was proposed by Shiffrin and Atkinson in
1968 and is generally utilized to explain basic memory functionality. According to this model, there are
three memory stages that are separated one from the other. These are sensory memory, short-term
memory, and long-term memory.
The first one is actually the first stage in which the information is stored for a very short period of time,
not more than half-second when it comes to visual and approximately three seconds for auditory
information. The second stage is also referred to as “active memory.” During this, the information is
maintained for twenty to thirty seconds, but may go to long-term memory if it’s properly attended. The
last stage represents a continuous information storage in which some can be rapidly accessed, such as
your birthday, while for some takes a little bit longer, like the name of the book you had to make a
review of during college.

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2. How is it organized?
Memory is in fact a very important part of human behaviorism because it is directly linked to decision
making and problem solving processes, thus it would be impossible for an individual to act without it.
Even though the way in which the memory is so well-organized isn’t currently completely understood,
scientists point out that there is a higher likelihood that they are arranged in groups. This is mainly the
reason why people can learn things through analogies. For instance, if you want to remember the
following word sequence: red, green, yellow, purple, and black, all you have to do is think about colors
and imagine one after the other like a short mental movie and it won’t be difficult to remember them at
all.
This aspect of memory allows the individual to associate new things with the ones he/she is already
familiar with, hence the learning processes are facilitated. Furthermore, there are some sources that
point out the brain’s ability of memory recalling when it is in the same state as the one in which the
memory was initially formed. For instance, if you remember a car accident that took place when you
were drinking a juice, it is more likely for the memory of the accident to be recalled every time that
particular brand of juice is drunk. On the other hand, there are no concrete studies to sustain this
feature.
3. What type of memory problems can people develop?
As with all bodily features, memory can sometimes let you down too. Either because you haven’t used it
enough and the brain, being a muscle, gets atrophied in time and is unable to function at its full
capacity, or because of an accident or diseases. The memory diseases known by almost all people are
Alzheimer’s disease, dementia, and Huntington’s disease. They were even made popular through
movies and series like House M.D, The Notebook, and Memento. While everybody sees memory
problems as an undesirable thing and thinks individuals who suffer from it should be taken as examples
of what to avoid, there are plenty of ways in which memory loss can be avoided.
Factors that negatively influence one’s memory include: stress, depression, head injuries, sleep
depravations, drugs, tobacco, alcohol, and over-the-counter medication. This is why before you start
thinking about how to treat a memory problem, you should do the best to avoid being in this situation.

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Additionally, some memory diseases that aren’t genetically linked can also be prevented by having a
balanced lifestyle which includes a reliable diet, a proper exercising program, and normal sleep
schedule.
In order to have a better understanding of these diseases, we’ll present some characteristics of the most
common developed by regular individuals. This should also help you see what some medication or
natural supplementation is destined for be aware of the fact that these are serious problems, not
children play, thus they should be treated likewise.
Amnesia represents an abnormal state of the mind in which cognitive functions like learning abilities
and memory are affected. The patient who suffers from this condition often remains responsive and
alert. Amnesia is divided into two main categories: retrograde amnesia, whose main characteristic is
that individuals don’t remember personal experiences, and anterograde amnesia in which people show
difficulties in retaining new information. The second one generally occurs after brain damage.
Alzheimer’s disease is a degenerative brain disease which doesn’t have a known cure and only ends
progressing when the patient passes away. The sad reality of this condition is that somewhere in
between one and five percent of the global population possesses it and it is estimated that numbers will
massively increase.
Agnosia can be described through the inability of recognizing specific sounds, persons, and objects. It is
generally determined by brain damage, either on parietal or occipital lobe or by a neurological disorder.
While there are some particular types of Agnosia, recovery is possible in these cases.
Huntington’s disease represents a progressive brain disorder that is inherited. This condition has fifty
percent chance of being sent further. In Canada, the prevalence of this condition is approximately one
percent, meaning that one in ten thousand Canadians suffer from it. Its symptoms include depression,
irritability, unexplained mood fluctuations, and memory loss. While there is currently no cure for it,
scientists are still working on finding one.
Parkinson’s disease, also known as PD, represents a neurodegenerative disease. One of the main
symptoms associated with this disorder is memory dysfunction which can be attributed to damage done
on the frontal lobe. According to some studies conducted in Sicily and London, one in one thousand
elderly individuals are likely to be diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease. Additionally, some studies point
out that memory linked to this condition can be viewed as selective impairment.

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Dementia is a class of disorders whit symptoms that include thinking and memory deterioration due to
the fact that the brain becomes damaged. It can be either irreversible like Alzheimer’s disease or
reversible like thyroid disease. There are approximately thirty five million people that suffer from this
condition at a global scale. While the incidence of this disease in women and men is the same, after
ninety years of age, women are more likely to suffer from it if they haven’t developed it yet.
While the above presented conditions are characterized through brain degeneration, thus memory loss,
there are also some on the opposite specter. An example is Hyperthymestic Syndrome, which causes
the person who suffers from it to possess a highly detailed autobiographical memory. It is stated that
individuals that have it are able to recall events from every day of their lives, except for the days before
they were five as well as those which were eventless. So far, there have been few existent official cases
linked to this condition.
Unfortunately, even normal aging can affect one’s memory. Even though an individual might not suffer
from a specific memory condition, by getting old, he/she will experience difficulties in recalling certain
happenings, dates and sometimes even the things viewed as normal. For instance, there are people who
forget their native language due to lack of practice (although these situations are rare).
Now that we’ve discussed certain conditions linked to memory loss and the understanding related to
ways in which these manifest, we can begin another chapter in which herbs that might help with
memory issues ranging from normal forgetting to a serious condition like Alzheimer’s disease, will be
presented.

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PART 2:
HERBS THAT MIGHT HELP IMPROVE ONE’S
MEMORY
1. How can herbs help with memory?
People have heard about a multitude of ways in which one’s memory can be improved. From juices to
specific pills, there are a lot of products on market that promise to deliver the best solution for focus
and memory boost. What do they contain and how can they actually help?
While most of these products aren’t verified by the FDA, they feature ingredients that vary from amino-
acids to vitamins and herbs. From all these, the focus of this chapter will be on herbs and the way in
which they can help people by being consumed on a regular basis.
First of all, according to some sources, plants have been utilized to treat diseases and illnesses by
ancient civilization. Considering this, scientists started to dig deeper and take in sight the idea that
plants may in fact offer beneficial results. The most popular herbs in this category are Ginkgo Biloba,
Gotu Kola, Brahmi, and Rosemary. However, that doesn’t mean that these are the only one that might
help. It is also believed that combinations are more likely to boost memory than one plant by itself.
But why plants and how do they do the trick?
Well the answer is pretty simple: either the chemicals inside them stimulate blood flow towards the
brain, thus stimulating cognitive processes, or they have a distinct smell that does the trick.

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2. Top plants that stimulate memory
Varying on the frequency of usage, as well as the situations in which they proved reliable, there are
some plants whose success is wider than other when it comes to cognitive stimulation. Some features
are associated to studies while others should be further researched and are only in the opinion stage.
The herbs that help stimulate your memory are:
1. Ginkgo Biloba
This plant is also known by the name of “maidenhair tree” and represents one of the oldest tree species
in existence. Some even describe it as a “living fossil” because it survived after major extension. It
possesses unique properties and can grow for up to one hundred and thirty feet tall and live for more
than one thousand years. The first European that encountered it was Engelbert Kaempfer in the late
1600s.
Compared to other herbs, the evidence behind the positive properties of this plant are relatively
substantial. For instance, a study published in Pharmacopsychiatry journal confirms by stating the
following: “the clinical efficacy of the ginkgo biloba special extract EGb 761 in dementia of the
Alzheimer type and multi-infarct dementia.” Furthermore, there was another study that pointed out
that Ginkgo “was safe and appears capable of stabilizing and in a substantial number of cases improving
the cognitive performance and the social functioning of demented patients for 6 months to 1 year.” The
downside would be that this herb doesn’t seem to have any type of noticeable effect on individuals who
are already healthy.
The reason for its efficacy within the organism relies on its components. Some of these are known for
killing fungi, bacteria, as well as certain bodily infections. On the other hand, a proper dosage should be
chosen due to the fact that the plant features a toxin which can determine side-effects such as loss of
consciousness and seizures. Even if you desire to follow a treatment based on Ginkgo Biloba, it is
important to keep in mind that you can be allergic to it and that some side-effects can occur throughout
its consumption, thus immediately stop taking it if any downsides are experienced.
2. Ginseng
This herb is generally found in cooler climates that include eastern Asia and North America. It is a part of
the genus Panax which means “all heal” in Greek. What differentiates it from other plants is its unique
compounds called ginsenosides. These components have undergone a series of tests and proved
beneficial for bodily issues like type 2 diabetes, sexual dysfunctions, and memory loss. It also boosts the
body’s immune system, removes some effects caused by aging, and balances metabolism.

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In addition, recent research revealed that American Ginseng may enhance working-memory. One of the
studies presented at the European College of Neuropsychopharmacology attested that the plant
positively influences cognitive functionality. Throughout the tests, adults received one of three doses
(one hundred, two hundred, or four hundred mg) and the changes in blood glucose and mood were
measured at intervals of one, three, or six hours.
It can also be found as a part of energizers or tonic natural products. When it comes to side-effects, this
herb has a major downside. Its utilization may lead to insomnia, particularly if the treatment expands on
larger periods of time. Furthermore, it is advised to properly look at the product labels and even ask for
a second opinion because there are some sources that state the irrelevance of the written quantity. In
order to avoid potential complications, a professional opinion should be asked prior to the start of the
treatment.
3. Sage
Also known under the name of Salvia officinalis, this herb was discovered in the Mediterranean region.
Other common names for it include Dalmatian Sage, Broadleaf Sage, Spanish Sage, Sarubia, and Tibbi
Adocayi. While it serves for a wide array of culinary purposes, this herb has proved beneficial for
treating some medical conditions as well. Even since Medieval ages, people believed that the plant
offers increase in memory and wisdom.
In 1597 it was described as a plant that “quickens the nerves and memory.” Since the evolution of
medicine, scientists have begun to test plants that were thought to have a positive impact on memory.
As far as Sage goes, there was a study in which forty four healthy adults took either a capsule featuring
Sage or placebo. Afterwards they participated in a series of recall tests. It was noticed that the
individuals who took Sage had a better recall memory than the others, thus there are chances for this
plant to have an impact on short-term memory.
The herb is now included in experiments for people suffering from some mental disorders such as
Alzheimer’s disease or dementia.
4. Rosemary
The Latin name of this plant is Rosmarious officinalis and it grows in Mediterranean areas. Its name is
linked to a legend that says Virgin Mary spread her cloak over some flowers and they turned blue just as
the cloak was. Since then, this plant was known as “Rose of Mary”. While it is viewed as a decorative
plant, it hides more qualities and it is believed to have a link with memory enhancement as well.
As a short history, this herb has an old reputation for memory enhancement and has also been utilized
as a remembrance symbol during war commemoration, weddings, and funerals in Australia and Europe.

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Shakespeare wrote about it in Hamlet, where Ophelia states “There’s rosemary, that’s for
remembrance: pray your love, remember”.
A study conducted by the British Psychological Society points out that the smell of this shrub helps
people remember complex tasks and events more easily. There were 66 people that participated in this
study and there were divided into two groups which were sent in two different rooms, one with the
smell and one without. The conclusion was drawn by Dr. Mark Moss who said “In this study we focused
on prospective memory, which involves the ability to remember events that will occur in the future and
to remember to complete tasks at particular times. This is critical for the everyday functioning”. Since
this study was made public, this herb is viewed as a potential cure for individuals who are unable to
perform daily tasks because they have a bad memory. Even though this plant can be found processed in
various products, from soaps to natural remedies, it doesn’t mean that by consuming any of these your
memory will instantly become better. While it doesn’t work like this and your memory is not going to
instantly get at its best, with proper treatment that contains rosemary, results can be seen after either
short or long-term usage, depending on the gravity of the situation.
5. Gotu Kola
It is one of those herbs that can be included in the category “used in Ayurvedic and traditional Chinese
medicine.” The most common component from it found in remedies is represented by the above-
ground parts. Its positive effects on the organism rely on some chemicals that decrease blood pressure
in veins and inflammation. Because of this, it has been utilized for bodily issues like depression, anxiety,
fatigue, Alzheimer’s disease, and other psychiatric disorders. Despite the fact that it is not supported by
major scientific evidence, there are some individuals who are certain of this plant’s effects on
intelligence and memory.
There was a study published in the Journal of Ethnopharmology which points out that this herb reduces
mood disorders in people of older ages who are healthy while also promoting stronger cognitive
functioning. The key amount on a daily basis is of approximately 750 milligrams. The chemicals that have
a major impact on memory are called triterpines and are generally standardized to eight percent in
extracts considered to be of high-quality.
The form in which the consumption is regarded as best is represented by tea. It can be easily made by
putting one teaspoon of dried Gotu Kola in hot water. For those who don’t like its bitter taste, lemon or
sugar can be added as taste-modifiers. The second best form in which people can follow a Gotu Kola
treatment is through capsules. For those who don’t have serious conditions and just desire a memory
improvement, the recommended type of capsules is the ones that contain 500 mg of Gotu Kola. In case
you’re following another treatment alongside or believe that your problem is serious, a professional
advice from a healthcare provider should be asked before taking any type of supplement.

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6. Hawthorn
This is an herb whose berries, flowers, and leaves are processed in order to obtain various
supplementation and medication. The most common reasons behind its consumption are chest pain,
irregular heartbeat, and cognitive heart failure. It positively affects the human body by enhancing the
quantity of blood pumped towards the heart during contraction. Furthermore, it enhances nerve signal
transmission and enlarges blood vessels.
Even though its main usage is linked to the heart and blood movement, its beneficial effects spread
throughout the organism and also influence cognitive functions. This is why there are some individuals
who believe that taking it in a supplementation form helps increase one’s daily memory and decreases
the time needed by someone to remember simple places or chores. In comparison to others, this one
may come with some counteractions and it is important to be careful throughout any type of utilization
that features it. The recommended period of usage is of sixteen weeks. During this period, some side-
effects such as fatigue, nausea, dizziness, nosebleed, agitation, palpitation, and sweating may appear,
case in which the treatment should be immediately interrupted.
7. Other herbs that help with memory
 Bacopa
 Basil
 Blueberries
 Club Moss
 Eleuthero Root
 Holy Basil
 Periwinkle
 Rhodiola
 Vinca Minior
 Hurpezia Serrata
 Lemon Balm
These are only some examples of herbs that may help with memory enhancement, but whose effects
have yet to be scientifically tested, thus a general conclusion can’t be stated. While there are some
people who believe in some of these, there are others who contradict the changes in mental activity
after their regular consumption. The trick is to find out what works best for you and apply it. However, it
is also important to take care of other lifestyle features in order to improve memory in a way that
matters.

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For instance sleep, exercising and time spent socializing represent one of the key aspects of memory
enhancement because they’re connected and if one of them doesn’t rise to required standards, there
are high chances for forgetfulness, sadness and mental weakness.
3. A conclusion
We hope that this eBook helped you understand more about the plants that can help enhance memory,
something about its importance linked to normal functionality as well as how and when to take certain
remedies. While there are far more things to be said on this topic, the space is limited and we believe
that general ideas were covered. Therefore, the general ideas are:
 Before making the decision to take any type of natural supplement, a specialized doctor should
be consulted in order to prevent side-effects and drug counteractions
 Some herbs have proven reliable through scientific tests while other haven’t. This means that in
some cases the only way to decide is to do some research of the product
 Even though there are some mental diseases without a cure at this particular moment, research
is being conducted, hence hope shouldn’t be lost
 Combination of herbs are generally better than taking only one
 If any type of side-effects occurs the treatment should be stopped (true for tea as well)
 Memory improvement is not an instant process, but requires time and ambition to make it
happen
 Mental exercising, good dieting, proper sleep schedule, avoidance of drugs, nicotine and alcohol
are all part of the memory enhancement processes and shouldn’t be overlooked
 Take things that affect your cognitive functions seriously, so you won’t regret it later.

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Works Cited
http://news.discovery.com
http://www.webmd.com
http://www.wikipedia.org
http://www.livestrong.com

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