Brain Fog? 4 Proven Natural Brain Boosters You Must Discover

Article by Dr Ahmed Zayed, MD.

 

       “I believe that for every illness or ailment known to man, that God has a plant out here that

       will heal it."

       Vannoy Gentles Fite

If you are ever stuck in a cycle of sluggish thinking, like a pattern of disorientation, confusion, and poor mental clarity, then you might be dealing with brain fog. Experts describe brain fog as slow thinking, trouble staying focused, forgetfulness, and haziness. (1)

That cloudy-headed feeling can get in the way of your sleep and normal routine. And just as athletes take supplements to improve their physical performance, you can use natural brain boosters to sharpen your mind. 

Many herbs are praised for enhancing clarity of mind, focus, concentration, mood, and memory. Some gain more attention than others. Here, we list four clinically supported natural brain boosters that could make a substantial difference.

4 Natural Brain Boosters

Wondering what supplements to take for brain fog? Herbs can be a more effective and safer alternative, as opposed to central nervous system (CNS) stimulants. Man-made CNS stimulants directly impact neurotransmitter activity whereas natural herbs works to restore balance in your body, treating the root cause of the condition so that it can operate as efficiently as possible. Thanks to their minimal side effect profile, some natural brain boosters remain a popular choice for brain fog.

Rhodiola Rosea 

Rhodiola Rosea is a known remedy used in traditional Chinese medicine. Recent studies show it can stimulate the nervous system, amplify work performance, curb fatigue, and alleviate anxiety. Its extract could increase central nervous system activity. (2)

This remedy was also traditionally used for improving memory and learning, making it a viable option for enhancing cognition. Additionally, Rhodiola Rosea has also been used to effectively fight mental fatigue. A 2012 clinical trial which evaluated 101 people who used 200 mg of Rhodiola Rosea extract two times a day for a span of 4 weeks demonstrated its efficacy in alleviating life-stress symptoms. (3) Participants experienced a notable improvement in symptoms of exhaustion, stress, and fatigue. Another 2022 clinical report supported similar results. This natural brain booster helped enhance physical and mental performance. (4)

Its rich anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, along with its potent adaptogenic effects make it a viable option to manage stress-induced depression and fatigue. 

• How much to take:  Dosages vary from 100 mg to 500 mg. The most common suggested dose is 200 mg twice a day. In certain trials, participants received 1,500 mg daily. For herbal supplements, it is recommended to start with a smaller dosage and monitor how your body reacts.

Bacopa Monnieri 

Bacopa Monnieri, commonly known as Brahmi, is a potent herb that is rooted in ancient Ayurvedic wisdom. Multiple clinical trials have demonstrated that this herbal remedy can offer beneficial cognitive improvements. As well as improve delayed and immediate memory recall and enhance processing speed. (5)

Being rich in antioxidants, this powerful herb could curb inflammation by stifling pro-inflammatory enzymes and cytokines. Further trials indicate that Bacopa Monnieri has huge potential to ameliorate cognitive disorders and oxidative damage. (6)

If you are struggling with brain fog, or you are looking for a cognitive enhancement tool, then Bacopa Monnieri can help. It may help facilitate your ability to process visual information, memory, and attention. More studies are necessary to evaluate its full impact on brain health.  

• How much to take: Bacopa supplements are typically used by adults in 300 mg to 600 mg doses, daily for a span of 12 weeks. You consult a licensed physician to find the best dose for your specific health condition.

Gotu Kola

Gotu Kola, also known as Centella Asiatica, is a well-known herbal brain tonic for improving memory and mental disorders. It is a herbaceous vine with leaves that look like kidneys. This is a remedy typically cultivated and found in Asian countries. 

The plant functions as a vegetable, spice, herb, and juice. It can also be found in cosmetic and nutraceutical products. What makes it potentially useful for brain fog is that Gotu Kola could offer neuroprotective effects, thereby enhancing learning and memory. (7)

Small-scale research compared the effects of folic acid vs Gotu kola extract for improving cognition after stroke. Participants were divided into three groups. One took 1,000 mg of Gotu kola daily. The second consumed 750 mg of Gotu kola daily, and the third took 3 mg of folic acid daily. 

Even though folic acid and Gotu kola were equally advantageous for enhancing overall cognition after stroke. Gotu kola seemed to be more efficient in improving the memory domain. These reports indicate that Gotu kola can be effective for enhancing cognitive function post-stroke. (8)

But, just like any other natural brain booster, it is not a magic pill and there is only so much it can do alone. The purpose of natural medicine is to provide your body with the right tools for it to heal itself naturally. Natural medicine advocates a holistic approach to healing which includes consuming a healthy diet, staying physically active and curbing stress to provide an optimal healing state for your body. Current research doesn’t support the impact of Gotu Kola used alone for cognition.

• How much to take: Experts commonly suggest not using more than 500 mg, two times a day for 14 days. Start with a low dose first. Talk to a health care provider to find the best dosage for your specific condition.

Ginkgo Biloba

The Ginkgo biloba tree is native to Japan, Korea, and China. The extract from its leaves has long been a key component to traditional Chinese medicine. Ginkgo contains active ingredients known as terpenoids and flavonoids. As well as terpene lactones, which are unique to this Maidenhair tree.

Because of its antioxidant effect, it can offer a positive impact on neurological and cognitive function. Experts believe that its therapeutic properties stem from a combination of effects. Such as blood vessel dilation and probably the inhibition of platelet-activating factors. (9)

Both of these factors could enhance cerebral blood flow. Older reports indicate that Ginkgo Biloba extract might alleviate symptoms of age-induced cognitive impairment. While a number of other studies show that it could help with working memory. But it could also prove useful in healthy individuals in need to improve their normal cognitive function. (10)

• How much to take: A classic dose for people with dementia is 40 mg of the ginkgo extract 3 times a day. For amplifying cognitive function in healthy individuals, some studies used 120 mg to 240 mg of the extract a day.

Daily supplements like Brain Focus by BesaPure are uniquely formulated with natural brain boosting herbs like Rhodiola rosea, Bacopa monnieri, Ginkgo biloba & Gotu kola (Centella asiatica). Carefully extracted for ideal concentrations and ratios of bioactive compounds for optimal potency. If you are looking for a natural alternative to clear brain fog or just to improve your concentration and alleviate stress. Give Brain Focus a try.

Inspired by ancient wisdom, made for you.

Bottomline

Many herbs have been praised for enhancing cognition and helping with brain fog. Options like Rhodiola Rosea, Bacopa Monnieri, Gotu Kola, and Ginkgo Biloba can make a practical addition to your natural supplement list. Always consult your doctor before starting any course of dietary supplements.

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