How to Stop Your Brain from Aging
Aging is an inevitable process, and with it often come concerns about memory loss and cognitive decline.
In today’s fast-paced world, the prevalence of age-related neurodegenerative disorders, such as Alzheimer’s and dementia, has become a growing concern.
Thankfully, nature has provided us with a treasure trove of herbs that can help combat these issues. In this article, I’ll share with you my go-to herbal remedy using powerful herbs to support brain health and prevent cognitive decline.
How Herbs Help an Aging Brain
Alzheimer’s and dementia affect a pretty big portion of the population. In the United States alone, about 5.8 million people have some sort of dementia or memory decline. This includes many over the age of 65 and 200,000 others under 65.
As we age, our brains can experience a decrease in blood flow and an accumulation of oxidative stress, factors that contribute to cognitive decline and memory issues. The herbs we’re focusing on today offer a natural means to counteract these changes.
Ginseng
Ginseng, particularly Panax ginseng, has been revered for centuries in traditional medicine for its ability to enhance brain function. It is known to alleviate a wide range of ailments, including cardiovascular disorders, kidney disease, sexual dysfunction, and aging. Ginsenosides, the active components in Ginseng, are known for their neuroprotective properties. They help in reducing oxidative stress and improving circulation, thereby enhancing cognitive function and memory. Research indicates that Ginseng can help improve mental clarity, concentration, and reduce brain fog, making it a crucial ingredient in my brain-boosting tincture.
Ginkgo Biloba
Ginkgo Biloba has a long-standing history of use in improving cognitive function. It has been used in Traditional Chinese Medicine since at least the 11th Century to treat dementia, kidney disorders, and other ailments. It’s particularly renowned for its ability to increase blood flow to the brain. This increased circulation aids in better oxygen and nutrient delivery, which is vital for maintaining cognitive health. Ginkgo also possesses antioxidant properties, which help protect the brain from oxidative damage, a key factor in age-related cognitive decline.
Ashwagandha
Ashwagandha, often called Indian Ginseng, is a cornerstone in Ayurvedic medicine. Ashwagandha is an ancient herb which is well-studied for its effects on the brain. It’s known for its adaptogenic properties, meaning it helps the body manage stress – a significant factor in cognitive health. Chronic stress can lead to neuronal damage and cognitive impairment. Ashwagandha supports the brain by reducing cortisol levels, the body’s stress hormone, and protecting against neuronal damage, thus preserving brain function and memory.
Other useful herbs for brain health are Cordyceps, Lion’s Mane, Reishi and Lemon Balm, whose health benefits include boosting cognitive function, limiting neuronal cell death, enhancing memory and focus, calming anxiety and stress, combating fatigue, and boosting energy. This Brain Bundle includes potent tinctures of all of them.
Brain-Boosting Tincture Recipe
You will need:
- 1/4 cup dried Ginseng root
- 1/4 cup dried Ginkgo Biloba leaves
- 1/4 cup dried Ashwagandha root
- 80-proof alcohol (such as vodka, enough to submerge the herbs)
- glass jar
- cheesecloth
Instructions:
- Begin by combining 1/4 cup each of dried Ginseng root, Ginkgo Biloba leaves, and Ashwagandha root in a clean glass jar.
- Pour enough alcohol into the jar to completely cover the herbs.
- Seal the jar tightly and store it in a cool, dark place for 4-6 weeks.
- Shake the jar gently every few days to facilitate the extraction process.
- After 4-6 weeks, strain the tincture using a cheesecloth or fine mesh strainer, making sure to extract as much liquid as possible.
- Transfer the strained tincture into a dark-colored dropper bottle for easy use.
How to Use
A typical dose is about 5-10 drops of the tincture, taken up to three times daily. If you are using this tincture as a preventative measure, once daily is enough. If you are dealing with symptoms of age-related cognitive decline, increase frequency up to three times per day.
Store the tincture in a cool, dark place. When stored properly, it can remain potent for up to 5 years.
Remember, while this tincture is a powerful tool in your arsenal for brain health, it’s most effective when coupled with a balanced lifestyle.
Regular physical exercise is paramount. Studies have consistently shown that engaging in physical activities, especially aerobic exercises, enhances brain health by improving blood flow and promoting the growth of new brain cells.
Equally important is a brain-healthy diet, rich in antioxidants, omega-3 fatty acids, and low in saturated fats – think the Mediterranean diet, celebrated for its neuroprotective properties.
Mental stimulation, like learning new skills, solving puzzles, and engaging in intellectual discussions, acts as a workout for the brain, enhancing its resilience. Social engagement, too, plays a vital role. Interacting with others, participating in community activities, and maintaining a social network help ward off mental decline and stimulate cognitive functions.
These lifestyle choices, backed by scientific research, offer a proactive approach to preserving our cognitive health and keeping the brain agile and active as we age.
Where can I buy small quantities of these herbs to try this tinture?
Do you put it on or under your Tongue
I find if the taste is strong I put it in a little bit of water or other beverage.
Are you going to post where we can find these fresh herbs? Or do YOU sell them? I’ve looked at several stores in my city, including Whole Foods, and can’t find any that sell these fresh herbs. I know others have this same question and we would appreciate an answer; preferable by email. I’ll get super busy, and may not remember to come back to this chat. Email is preferable.
I buy all my herbs from a bulk food place, look for organic or pesticides free.
My bulk food place is called Food Culture in Ocean Shores NSW Australia, they have everything.
Sorry Karyla. My previous comment was supposed to be a General comment…not a response to yours.
Look up Mountain Rose herbs, Penn Herbs, if you have a small store near you like a Great earth that is helpful as well. Good luck!
Does it matter if you use a powdered form of each?
All these recipes do you have it all in one book?. I’d like to buy it.
Can you use the powder form of each? I would like to know too.
Starwest Botanicals is a store on Amazon that carries all of these ingredients
When you say store in a cool, dark place is a refrigerator ok? I live in the high desert.
From what I’ve learned thus far , it will be ok. Maybe put a dark sock over the jar also. I have my aloe tincture in fridge that way.