Do you have trouble remembering little things like where you left your car keys, or what you were supposed to buy at the grocery store? Or you forgot your doctor’s appointment? Having a weak memory can make your everyday life quite frustrating.
As the age increases, memory problems become very common. The quality of our memory can be affected by various factors, such as: stress, sleep deprivation, depression, underactive or overactive thyroid, nutritional deficiencies (particularly B vitamins), smoking, drinking alcohol, and use of certain medications.
Memory problems can also be caused by dementia, Alzheimer’s disease and other conditions, which can also cause other symptoms. When dealing with such serious issues, it is best to consult an expert for proper diagnosis and treatment.
But, if you’re only having general memory problems, you can try some natural home remedies and incorporate healthy lifestyle changes.
Here are the top 10 home remedies to improve memory:
1. Almonds
In Ayurvedic medicine, almonds are used as an excellent help to improve memory and brainpower. They contain antioxidants and omega-3 fatty acids that boost memory. Containing antioxidants makes them good for your eyes.
- Soak 5 to 10 almonds in water and leave them overnight.
- Peel their skin and grind them the next morning.
- When you make them into a paste, boil it with one glass of milk.
- Add some sugar or honey for taste.
- Drink this every day for 30 or 40 days.
2. Rosemary
Rosemary is a popular herb for improving weak memory. According to a 2013 study, conducted by researchers at the University of Northumbria in England, even the smell of rosemary can help improve prospective memory, which is critical for everyday functioning.
Prospective memory is the ability to remember to do something in the future (for example, return someone’s phone call, remembering to get gas before a trip, etc.).
- Put one teaspoon of dried rosemary in a cup of boiling water and let it steep for about five minutes. If you have fresh rosemary, put a sprig in a teapot with hot water and steep it for three to five minutes. Strain the tea and you can add honey for taste, if you prefer. Drink it daily for a few weeks.
- The aroma of rosemary is also helpful. You can breathe in the aroma of rosemary oil or add a few drops of the oil to a room diffuser.
Note: There are no studies on the effects of rosemary on children, so it not recommended for medicinal use in those aged under 18. However, you can use it as a spice when cooking.
3. Black Seed (Nigella Sativa)
Black seed (scientific name, Nigella Sativa), also called kalonji, has great mind-sharpening potential, thanks to its anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and neuron-protecting properties.
The Journal of Ethnopharmacology published a study that found that those who took two 500 mg capsules containing pure ground black seed powder daily showed improved memory, cognition, and attention compared to those who took a placebo.
- Mix half a teaspoon of ground black seeds with a little honey. Eat it twice a day for at least a few weeks.
- You can also take this herb in supplement form after consulting your doctor.
4. Indian Gooseberry
Indian gooseberry, also called amla, is used in Ayurvedic medicine to enhance memory power and strengthen the nervous system.
The journal Physiology & Behavior published a study in 2007 that found that an Ayurvedic preparation, Anwala churna can improve memory and help in the management of Alzheimer’s disease. Indian gooseberry is rich in vitamin C and has antioxidant content, which makes it a good immune booster.
- Take one to three teaspoons of Anwala churna three times a day for at least a few weeks.
- Alternatively, you can mix one teaspoon each of Indian gooseberry root powder and white sesame seeds, also ground into a powder. Add one teaspoon of honey to this mixture and eat it once a day for a few days.
5. Brahmi
Brahmi is an Ayurvedic herb with great mental benefits. It works as a brain tonic and has antioxidant and neuroprotective effects.
A 2008 study published in the Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine found that brahmi (scientific name bacopa monnieri) helped improve word recall memory and decrease anxiety and depression. The study was conducted on healthy individuals age 65 and older.
- Extract the juice from brahmi leaves and consume 1 – 2 teaspoons two or three times a day. You can add some honey if you want.
- Also, you can mix one-quarter to half a teaspoon of brahmi powder in a cup of warm milk, add a pinch of cardamom and drink it once or twice a day. You can also add a little clarified butter, or ghee.
- You can buy brahmi supplements and take 300 mg of standard extract a day. Consult your doctor first.
Follow any of these remedies for at least a few weeks.
6. Fish Oil
Fish oil supplements have been found to be helpful for improving the memory and reducing the cognitive decline, thanks to the high levels of omega-3 fatty acids. Fish oil contains Docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) that may also help prevent the formation of brain plaques linked to Alzheimer’s disease.
- Take fish oil supplements, containing at least 600 mg DHA, everyday. For proper dosage and suitability, consult your doctor.
- You can include fatty fish like herring, salmon, mackerel and sardines in your diet.
7. Coconut Oil
Coconut oil can help fuel the brain cells and thus improve memory and cognitive function. It is also believed to be helpful when it comes to the prevention of dementia and fighting against Alzheimer’s disease. It will also boost your energy, reduce the cholesterol and improve the health of your skin and hair.
- Eat one teaspoon of organic, cold-pressed, virgin coconut oil twice a day on a regular basis.
- You can also add coconut oil to your smoothies, salads and baking goods.
8. Cinnamon and Honey
Cinnamon and honey will relieve nervous tension and improve your memory. According to a research, even the smell of cinnamon can help enhance memory and cognitive function.
Furthermore, it is believed that eating honey before going to sleep will help you prevent nocturnal metabolic stress. It also promotes sleep, which plays a significant role in the consolidation of memory.
- Mix one teaspoon of raw honey with a pinch of cinnamon.
- Consume this mixture every day at night for at least a few months.
9. Asian Ginseng
Ayurvedic and Chinese medicine have traditionally used Asian ginseng as a memory enhancer. It has also been studied by scientists to determine its memory-boosting potential. You can also use it in combination with ginkgo biloba.
Do not take ginseng for a prolonged period of time, but you can take it in cycles. Take it for two or three weeks, then take a break for three weeks and then start again. Consult your doctor for proper dosage and suitability.
Note: Asian ginseng may interfere with certain medications and is not recommended for children.
10. Ginkgo Biloba
People often use ginkgo biloba for memory disorders because it improves blood flow to the brain and helps it function better. Patients who suffer from dementia and Alzheimer’s disease have found it helpful for improving their memory and thinking. On the other hand, according to a study published in the journal Human Psychopharmacology, it may not be useful for improving memory in healthy individuals.
The general dosage of this herb is 40 mg (three times a day for those suffering from dementia), although there is no recommended dosage. Researches, who have been studying this herb’s effect on the improvement in cognitive function, have given healthy individuals a daily dose of 120 to 600 mg per day, but they don’t believe that it has been of much help to these individuals.
Note: Ginkgo biloba may interfere with certain medications, so always consult your doctor before using it.
Additional Tips
- Eat a well-balanced and nutritious dietrich in vitamins A, B12, C, folic acid, beta-carotene, zinc, calcium, iron and magnesium.
- Avoid high-fat diets and replace saturated fats in your diet with healthy fats.
- Herbs and spices like holy basil, turmeric and black pepper will help boost your memory, so make sure to include them in your diet. Also drink green tea because it is full of antioxidants.
- Practice brain exercises (Sudoku puzzles and crosswords) to give your brain a workout.
- Try mnemonic devices to help remember things better.
- Exercise regularly to increase oxygen to the brain and stimulate nerve cells to multiply.
- Get enough sleep. Sleep deprivation compromises the brain’s ability to operate at full capacity.
- A daily sun exposure of few minutes will improve the brain function, since it provides vitamin D.
- Avoid stressful situations.
Sourced: top10homeremedies
