Herbs to Enhance Cognition and Ward Off Dementia

It is never too early to take preventative measures from senility or dementia. Our mind can be our greatest ally and our biggest obstacle. Most of us have probably experienced memory loss for some reason; alcohol overindulgence, stress, anger… and personally I don’t know of anything scarier. Exercising and feeding the mind to ward of dementia is a serious responsibility we all need to meet.

Through consulting with a naturopath or medical herbalist, you can reduce the chances of early onset dementia. Herbs such as bacopa, ginkgo biloba and lemon balm are well used for enhancing cognitive function. In an Australian clinical trial the long-term effects of Bacopa on cognitive function was examined. The findings indicated that Bacopa significantly improved the speed of visual information processing, verbal learning rate and memory consolidation. For those with a family history of dementia, or with compromised mental capacity, it would be worth discussing the use of Bacopa with their health professional.

Ginkgo biloba has been studied for its effect on dementia and Alzheimer’s Disease. As it is an antioxidant, circulatory stimulant (particularly to the brain), cognition enhancing and neuroprotective it is no wonder scientists want to test it with people suffering Dementia, senility and Alzheimer’s. Studies have indicated improvements in cerebral blood flow, motor recovery, mood and behaviour, intellectual performance and memory. It hasn’t proven efficacious to those with mild to moderate Alzheimer’s or vascular dementia, but works well as a preventative, and in the earliest stages of dementia. It is essential to consult with a Medical Herbalist or Pharmacist before taking Ginkgo biloba as it may interact with certain medications particularly warfarin and aspirin.

Lemon balm is a part of the Lamiaceae family, which has received much press lately as being effective for Dementia and Alzheimer’s Disease. Lemon balm was a favourite ingredient in many a medieval “elixir of youth”, its use as a neurological tonic is as historic as history itself. Early Arabic and European texts show Lemon balm was used to treat depression, anxiety and memory loss.

Working with diet and herbs there is a great chance of preventing senility and dementia. They also have a great side effect of feeling great and having enhanced cognition and concentration, making the mind way more effective and efficient. Working alongside a Naturopath or Medical Herbalist is an amazing chance to optimise your life and getting the most out of this journey – without needlessly suffering from dementia and other age-related diseases. Good health is by choice, not by chance. Who will look after you if you become incapacitated with senility or dementia? If you can’t take this step for yourself, then take responsibility of your health for your children or partner or community, so they don’t have to look after you and you can enjoy the ageing process, and the seeds you have spent your life sowing.

About the Author: