We know a lot about the way the human body works, and medical technology has made it possible to survive conditions that would have previously been fatal.
Unfortunately, while we have learned a lot about the way the rest of the body works, our medical knowledge of the brain is sorely lacking. This means that while we may live longer, we will experience the same sort of memory loss the elderly do today. This fate can be avoided by taking supplements; in fact, supplements are so effective that they may help you improve your memory now as well. Try the following supplements to improve your memory and your future:
Bacopa Monnieri
Bacopa Monnieri is an herb originally used to help ancient people memorize scripture. It was also used to help enhance the learning experience and improve concentration. Bacopa Monnieri is good for improving and preventing memory loss as you age. It is able to balance dopamine, GABA, and serotonin and it helps regulate mood and relieve anxiety.
Ginseng
Ginseng is a Chinese herb that has been used for thousands of years as the “elixir of life.” Ginseng extract containing Cereboost is known to improve memory, while at the same time increasing longevity and strength. For the best effects, try to purchase a Ginseng extract from America, as the species that grows there (
Panax quinquefolius ) is considered superior. Clinical studies have shown that Panax quinquefolius improves memory and mental clarity within a few hours of your first dose.
Mucuna Pruriens
Mucuna pruriens, also known as the “happy neurotransmitter”, is a legume that increases memory and mood. It works by increasing dopamine. When you feel happy, your body releases this hormone; hence, many cases of depression stem from a dopamine imbalance. Dopamine imbalance also contributes to the general malaise and lethargic feelings that accompany depression. When Mucuna pruriens releases more dopamine, it also motivates you to succeed-meaning that not only will you be able to memorize more information, you’ll also be eager to learn.
Huperzine A
Huperzine A comes from the Chinese club moss plant and has been used for thousands of years for everything from poison cures to inducing lucid dreams. It has been shown to improve memory by slowing the breakdown of the neurotransmitter acetylcholine. Acetylcholine, also known as the “messenger neurotransmitter” is responsible for transmitting commands to your body’s cells. These messages can be anything from muscle movement to digestive function. Since a loss of acetylcholine has been associated with memory loss and Alzheimer’s disease, slowing its decline is a great way to slow memory loss.
Phosphatidylserine
Phosphatidylserine is found in brain cell membranes that regulate what gets in and out of your brain cells; in essence, they only let healthy nutrients in and waste out. Although we are not quite sure how Phosphatidylserine works, we do know it boosts memory and helps with learning. Studies have shown it to be particularly effective in helping with ADHD and other attention-related disorders. Phosphatidylserine also protects you against age-related memory loss and reduces stress by lowering cortisol levels (the neurotransmitter responsible for causing feelings of stress).
Vinpocetine
Vinpocetine is derived from the periwinkle plant that increases blood flow to the brain. This increases the oxygen content of the brain which improves cell function and protects from damage. Although this helps reduce long-term memory loss, Vinpocetine hasn't been shown to improve immediate memory improvement, and thus must be taken with another supplement in order to get immediate results. Always consult your doctor before taking any supplement. Be especially careful when mixing two supplements!.
Curcumin
Curcumin is a spice that has been shown to decrease Alzheimer’s over time; in societies that regularly consume curcumin, it’s been shown they have lower rates of Alzheimer’s. It is believed this is due to its ability to increase blood flow and brain-derived neurotrophic factor that stimulates brain cell production.