How to Make Lavender Lemonade to Help With Headaches and Anxiety

Lavender Lemonade has a huge benefits than you can ever imagine. We live in a modern world, some refer to it as a global village, a place where everything we do depends so much on time, a place where your dream job depends so much on how fast and efficient you are, where machines and motorcades are bought because of their speed and time saving abilities, it’s not a surprise if anxiety and headache are among the most common daily conditions in a world like ours.

Anxiety may arise as a result of the inability of a participated person to meet up with a set target or delivery time, or dealing with family or work related issues, while headache may occur as a result of over thinking, sometimes, it may be due to not getting enough sleep, but one thing that’s common to both anxiety and headache is stress, they are both resultant of stress.

It’s quite unfortunate that in the quest of most persons to find a solution to their anxiety and headache, they tend to take decisions that are bad or not too good, some have taken coffee as a partner, and have fallen into acute addiction, while others result to constant ingestion of aspirin, panadol, or paracetamol, some even use more harmful drugs, cigarette, or alcohol, all these just to calm themselves, reduce their pain, and feel much better, the negative effect is greater than imagined.

Vitamin C which is one of the nutrients found in lemonade helps in controlling migraines, citrus is also generally known as antidepressants, and helps in increasing mental alertness and concentration. Lavender herb on its own has been known for centuries as an anti-inflammatory, detoxifier, and and antidepressant. Therefore, you can best imagine the results the two ingredients, when mixed would have on a stressed person.

A research that was carried out by Jeremy Appleton, who is a naturopathic physician, he opined that lavender’s scent changes our perceptive of pain, that when we scent lavender, we are able to tolerate pain much better. This may due to the fact that lavender helps reducing our pulse rates, therefore calming the senses. 
Some of the benefits of lavender oil is:
1. It is Anti-inflammatory
2. It is Hypotensive
3. It is Analgesic
4. It is Antiseptic
5. It is Antidepressant
6. It is Antimicrobial
7. It is Antispasmodic
8. It is Antibacterial
9. It is Detoxifier
10. It is Anti-fungal
Ingredients for making lavender lemonade
1. 1 cup raw honey
2. 6 – 12 cups pure water as desirable
3. 1/4 cup dried lavender or 1 drop of lavender essential oil
4. Dried organic culinary lavender
5. 6 lemons, peeled and juiced
6. Lavender sprigs for garnish

Directions.
1. Boil half of the water in a pan or kettle, put down from the heat source, then add honey and dried lavender, leave for about 20 minutes.
2. Strain the mixture and pour into a large container, add lemon juice and the remnant water, stir well.
3. Put in a refrigerator to cool.

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WOnderful Benefits Of Chamomile Tea

Chamomile tea contains Chamazulene, an aromatic chemical compound that possesses anti-inflammatory, analgesic and antispasmodic properties. Whether you're overworked or suffering from a cold, "steep a hot cup of Chamomile tea, inhale its wonderful floral fragrance and then see your worries disappear as you sip this magical golden brew," assures an expert. Chamomile tea is a popular beverage across the world, it is steeped with both health and skin benefits that are hard to find in many other teas. The benefits of chamomile tea are in abundance. It is not only soothing and refreshing, but can also be beneficial for you in more than just one way.

We've spoken to health experts and listed 13 remarkable benefits of Chamomile tea.

1. Promotes Sleep and Treats Insomnia

According to a dietician, "Chamomile tea relaxes nerves and soothes the nervous system, therefore helping you sleep better. It lacks the addition of caffeine, and is best consumed before sleeping".

2. Boosts Immunity

Many studies have shown that Chamomile tea will not only kick illnesses to the curb, but also work as a great preventive measure. "It fights harmful bacteria, and has the ability to boost your immune system," says a Dr.

 

3. Treats Cold

Suffering from a terrible cold? One of the best benefits of chamomile tea comes into play here. Consider drinking a hot cup of chamomile tea and let it work its magic. You can also inhale steam from Chamomile tea  to ease nasal congestion, a runny nose and sore throat.

 

4. Reduces Muscle Spasms and Period Pain

According to a study, Chamomile tea has pain-relieving and antispasmodic properties. It relaxes the uterus and decreases the production of prostaglandins (hormone-like substances that cause inflammation and pain).

5. Soothes Stomach Ache

According to the doctors, "Chamomile tea has been valued as a digestive relaxant and has been used to treat various gastrointestinal disturbances including flatulence, indigestion, diarrhea, anorexia, motion sickness, nausea and vomiting".

6. Treats Cuts, Wound and Skin Conditions

Did you know that Chamomile tea has been used by the Romans, Greeks and Egyptians to treat wounds and promote healing? This is because the plant Chamomile tea is derived from Matricaria chamomilla L, which has anti inflammatory and antimicrobial properties. It also heals skin conditions such as psoriasis and eczema.

7. Reduces Stress

Today's busy, chaotic world leaves us feeling increasingly anxious and stressed. According to a dietician, "Chamomile tea is a gentle relaxant and acts as an effective natural sedative, thereby reducing stress."

8. Lightens Skin

Sipping into hot chamomile tea could do wonders for your skin too! This magic potion can be used as a natural skin bleach. Chamomile tea is packed with antioxidants which helps boost your skin health. It lightens the complexion and also gives you that glow you've always wanted.

9. Reduces Acne

Not just the glow, chamomile tea could help end your war with frequent acne break out too. Chamomile tea helps fade spots, eliminate acne scars and fight breakouts, if used topically, due to its anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties.

10. Anti-Ageing

Chamomile tea is a powerhouse of antioxidants and protects the skin from free-radical damage. It accelerates cell and tissue regeneration, helps tighten the pores and slows down the ageing process.
 

11. Treats Sunburn

The harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays of the sun can cause various problems for your skin. Chamomile tea is known for its antioxidant, soothing and anti-inflammatory properties. You can brew the tea, chill it thoroughly, soak a towel in it and then apply to the sunburned area.
 

12. Reduces Under-Eye Dark Circles
India's leading beauty expert says, "Never throw away Chamomile tea bags after using them, and refrigerate them instead. You can place the chilled tea bag over your eyes (especially after doing an eye massage) to lighten the eye area dramatically and reduce puffiness. You will find an instant difference in the way your eyes look and feel".

13. Gets Rid of Dandruff

Drink a cup of chamomile tea. Yes we are serious. Chamomile tea helps eliminate and prevent dandruff, soothe scalp irritation and promotes healthy hair. You can use it as a final rinse after washing your hair. It's that simple!

THIS IS ONLY FOR INFORMATION, ALWAYS CONSULT YOU PHYSICIAN BEFORE HAVING ANY PARTICULAR FOOD/ MEDICATION/EXERCISE/OTHER REMEDIES.                                    PS- THOSE INTERESTED IN RECIPES ARE FREE TO  VIEW MY BLOG-                                                                                           https://gseasyrecipes.blogspot.com/       
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Chinese and American Skullcap- herbs

Although one would be inclined to think of the Pope when hearing the word “skullcap”, it can also refer to two herbs, American skullcap (Scutellaria lateriflora) and Chinese skullcap (Scutellaria baicallensis).
The two plants are from the same family, but serve different purposes when it comes to medicinal uses, and have different physical characteristics. As their full names suggest, they also grow in entirely different parts of the world. The American skullcap is native to North America, but found in Europe and elsewhere, whereas the Chinese skullcap is found in China and Russia.
The plants get their name from the shape of their small blue or purple flowers, which are hooded, tube-shaped and two-lipped. The upper lips form a hood, and the lower lid has two lobes.

Growing to between 2 and 4 feet in height and having leaves that grow to some 3 inches long, the American skullcap is a slender and heavily-branched plant. On the other hand, the Chinese skullcap has single, narrow and erect stems that bear inch-long bluish-purple flowers. Its skinless and yellow root anchors the plant. Here’s all you need to know about American and Chinese skullcap:

American Skullcap

American skullcap has antioxidant properties that are believed to protect against Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, anxiety, and depression.
These properties have also been found to boost antioxidant activity in the liver, which is considered to be one of our organs that takes longest to recover. American skullcap boosts the liver’s efficiency, helping it to reduce toxin levels in the body and the blood. In turn, this leads to enhanced well-being.
• Sedative
Seeing as it’s a nervine, American skullcap can help to treat epilepsy, hysteria, panic attacks, anxiety, and delirium tremens. What’s more is that it can induce sleep naturally, doing away with the side effects that come with over-the-counter prescription drugs and sleeping aids.
• Antispasmodic
Throat infections, headaches from stress, neuralgia, and after-effects of incessant coughing can all be taken care of with American skullcap. It’s even useful for treating individuals experiencing withdrawal symptoms from tranquilizers and barbiturates. It’s also believed to be effective for treating anorexia nervosa, fibromyalgia, and mild Tourette’s syndrome.
• Analgesic
Not only can American skullcap offer pain relief throughout the whole body, but it can also reduce inflammation and help the body heal from wounds and inflammation.
Chinese Skullcap
Chinese skullcap is recognized as a very strong antiviral that can work against certain viruses, and it also has antibacterial properties that can work against certain virus strains. Furthermore, it’s also good for lessening symptoms of diabetes and hypertension. With that being said, more research needs to be done in human studies.
What Is Skullcap Used For?

Although both skullcap plants are used for medicinal purposes, it’s actually different parts of each plant that are used, namely American skullcap leaves and Chinese skullcap roots. American skullcap was widely used for two centuries to treat ailments such as anxiety, nervous tension, and convulsions.
Both plants are usually available in both powder and capsule form, however, American skullcap teas and extracts are also sold nowadays.
Certain Native American tribes are known to use American skullcap to treat rabies and schizophrenia. They also used it during spiritual ceremonies to induce hallucinations and see visions.
Chinese skullcap is used to relieve the following conditions:
• Allergies
• Common cold
Headaches
• Irritability
• Inflammation
• Infections accompanied by a fever
• Urinary tract infections
• Redness of the eyes and the face
• Abdominal pain
• Nosebleed
• Jaundice
• Diarrhea
• Dysentery
• Gout
• Vaginal bleeding
How to Grow Skullcap

American skullcap is best grown in partial shade as opposed to full sunlight and thrives on grassy slopes at high altitudes. It’s usually cultivated in sandy, rocky and dry soils, as well as in planting beds. It blooms in late spring, all throughout the summer or even early fall, depending on the climate it’s being grown in.
The seeds of both plants are best sown in early spring after the risk of frost has passed. They germinate at a naturally high rate and fare better if stratified for approximately one week.
Place the seeds in a sealed plastic bag with sand or a moist paper towel. Put them in your refrigerator, and leave them there for a week.
When the week is up, tamp the seeds lightly into the soil in flats that are about a ¼ inch deep. The seeds will germinate some two weeks after. When the first leaves have developed, begin transplanting the plant outdoors, ensuring that you leave a 12-inch gap between each row that you plant.
Water the plant moderately, ensuring that the soil is well-drained. You can also propagate skullcap plants by dividing roots or cuttings. The grown plants will eventually spread and clump, and they may even grow to be resistant to major pests.
Skullcap plants should be harvested when their flowers are in full bloom. Use shears or scissors to harvest the flowers and leaves. Make sure that you leave at least 3 inches of the plant above the ground when harvesting.
One Final Thing – Potential Side Effects of Skullcap
Always consult a physician before using skullcap, because it’s known to have several side effects. It also interacts with certain herbs, supplements or other medications. The effects of the sedatives below were all found to be increased when used in combination with both American and Chinese skullcap:
• Anticonvulsants like phenytoin (Dilantin) and valproic acid (Depakote)
• Barbiturates
• Benzodiazepines like alprazolam (Xanax) and diazepam (Valium)
• Insomnia-treating drugs like zolpidem (Ambien), zaleplon (Sonata), eszopiclone (Lunesta) and ramelteon (Rozerem)
Pregnant or breastfeeding women must avoid skullcap due to potential complications that can arise. There are also certain varieties of American skullcap that are contaminated with germander, a group of plants that are thought to cause liver problems. The plant should always be bought from a reputable seller in order to avoid such issues.
Last but not least, Chinese skullcap should not be used by diabetics, especially if there’s no doctor supervision involved. The risk of hypoglycemia or low blood sugar levels can increase as a result of ingesting the herb, as well as strengthen the effect of diabetes drugs. You should also avoid Chinese skullcap if you have stomach or spleen problems. As advised above, always consult your physician prior to using either American or Chinese skullcap.

THIS IS ONLY FOR INFORMATION, ALWAYS CONSULT YOU PHYSICIAN BEFORE HAVING ANY PARTICULAR FOOD/ MEDICATION/EXERCISE/OTHER REMEDIES.                                                                                                                                                                                                             PS- THOSE INTERESTED IN RECIPES ARE FREE TO  VIEW MY BLOG-                                                                                           https://gseasyrecipes.blogspot.com/   

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Amazing Health Benefits of Guava Seeds

Guava is a nutritious and delicious fruit that tastes like a combination of pear and strawberry. It is high in vitamin A, vitamin C, vitamin E, niacin, thiamine, iron, calcium, potassium, phosphorus, manganese, etc.

In addition, it has a high fiber and water content. This tropical fruit also has digestive, carminative, antihyperglycemic, antispasmodic, antibiotic, sedative, anti-inflammatory, and anti-cancer properties.
It helps treat acne, cure piles, lower the risk of diabetes, promote fertility, and relieve digestive disorders such as constipation, diarrhea, stomach ache, and acidity. Plus, it works as a filling snack and yet aids in weight loss. Regular consumption of this fruit is good for your skin too.

Guava has white or maroon pulp with plenty of small seeds packed within. Although the seeds of most fruits and vegetables are discarded as they cannot be digested, guava seeds need not be treated in the same way as they are edible.

In fact, they are great for your health as they are packed with antioxidants. They are also rich in other nutrients, essential fatty acids, and contain a good amount of iodine. The seeds and skin of this fruit have glycosides, carotenoids, and other phenolic and flavonoid compounds. They also have anti-inflammatory and antibiotic effects.

Discussed below are some health benefits of guava seeds.

Lowers High Blood Pressure

Guava fruits and seeds are good for reducing high blood pressure as they are high in antioxidants and potassium. Due to its high potassium,banana is often considered for high blood pressure, but it is interesting to note that a guava has almost 60 percent more potassium than a medium-sized banana. Studies have shown that intake of potassium helps regulate blood pressure.

The bioactive compounds and antioxidant power of guava seeds also help control body weight, glycemia (concentration of glucose in the blood), dyslipidemia (high amounts of lipids in the blood), triglyceride levels and other factors that contribute to an increased risk of cardiovascular disease.

Relieves Constipation

Guava seeds, especially when ingested whole, are useful for those suffering from constipation because of their stimulant laxative effect. The seeds are also a good source of dietary fiber that aids in digestion. So, eat guavas with seeds to promote bowel movement and relieve constipation.
For best results, it is often suggested not to chew the seeds; rather swallow or gulp the small seeds after chewing the pulp or else it may cause acidity.

Reduces Prostate Cancer Risk

Guava pulp and seeds help restrict the development of cancer cell lines. They are high in an antioxidant called lycopene that fights prostate cancer. It is also suspected to help inhibit the growth of breast cancer cells.

Antioxidants are extremely important in preventing and controlling cancer as they help the body defend itself from the proliferation of free radicals.
Studies have also found guava seed extracts to have anti-cancer effects on hematological and solid neoplasms. In addition to guava seed extracts, studies have also evaluated guava leaf extracts. Leaf oil, and whole plant extracts for chemotherapeutic applications.

Helps Control Cholesterol

Guava seeds contain polyunsaturated fatty acids that help manage high cholesterol by keeping blood cholesterol levels in check. Moreover, the seeds being rich in fiber, interfere with the absorption of bile in the intestines.

As the bile is eliminated in the feces, the liver makes bile salts to make up for the loss of bile. This helps reduce cholesterol in the bloodstream because the body uses it to produce the bile salts by increasing the production of LDL receptors.

If you do not like to eat guava seeds yet want to derive the health benefits of this food then you can get guava seed extract from the market. It is rich in vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and essential fatty acids.

Moreover, you can apply guava seed oil on your skin to maintain skin moisture for soft and supple skin. Due to the high antioxidant levels, it will also fight free radicals and prevent premature ageing and wrinkles. 

Being astringent in nature, it will also promote skin tightening. When applied to the scalp, it will help control dandruff, prevent hair loss, and make your hair strong and shiny. When purchasing guava seed oil, make sure you get an organic one.

THIS IS ONLY FOR INFORMATION, ALWAYS CONSULT YOU PHYSICIAN BEFORE HAVING ANY PARTICULAR FOOD/ MEDICATION/EXERCISE/OTHER REMEDIES.                                                                                                                                                                                                        PS- THOSE INTERESTED IN RECIPES ARE FREE TO  VIEW MY BLOG-                                                                                           https://gseasyrecipes.blogspot.com/  

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HEALTH BENEFITS OF NUTMEG

Nutmeg is a small oval shaped nut, with a sweet fragrance. It is found in most kitchens of the world, as it is used both in sweets and its oil is also used for its beneficial properties.

Some of its beneficial components include iron, potassium, manganese, folate, magnesium, thiamin, copper, and vitamins B1 and B6. It’s also rich in stimulant, carminative, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antispasmodic, and aphrodisiac properties. All these factors give this spice its long list of health benefits.

1. Fights Depression and Anxiety
If you have anxiety or depression, nutmeg is a fantastic natural treatment.
The compounds myristicin and elemicin in nutmeg offer mild sedative and anti-anxiety benefits by activating the neurotransmitters serotonin and dopamine in the brain. This also helps us cope with stress.
Method:
1. Mix a pinch of nutmeg powder with 1 tablespoon of Indian gooseberry juice.
2. Drink twice a day to calm the mind and relive depression.

2. Boosts Brain Power
Nutmeg helps keep your brain sharp and healthy. In fact, ancient Roman and Greek civilizations used nutmeg as a brain tonic. Myristicin helps improve memory by stimulating the nerves in the brain. It also improves concentration and the ability to focus.
Method:
1. To ensure good brain health, add a pinch of nutmeg to a glass of warm water and drink it before going to bed.

 

3. Fights Insomnia

If you find it hard to sleep at night, nutmeg can help you out. Its sedative and calming properties work as a natural sleep aid. Furthermore, this spice is rich in magnesium, which stimulates the release of serotonin, creating a feeling of relaxation and sedation.

• Drink a cup warm milk mixed with a pinch of nutmeg powder before going to bed.
• Alternatively, mix 2 drops of nutmeg essential oil in 2 tablespoons of olive oil and massage it onto your forehead before going to bed.

4. Relieves Joint and Muscle Pain
Nutmeg contains many essential volatile oils that that have anti-inflammatory properties, such as elemicin, eugenol, and myristicin. This makes it very useful for treating joint and muscle pain.
• To get relief from painful joints and muscles, mix some nutmeg oil with coconut or olive oil, and apply to the affected areas a few times a day.
• Adding a little nutmeg to your cooking can help reduce inflammation and pain. 

5. Treats Acne
Nutmeg’s antioxidant nature means that it can help fight free-radical damage, which is important for maintaining acne-free skin. Furthermore, it can help make acne scars a lot less noticeable.
• Prepare a paste with equal amounts of powdered nutmeg and raw honey. Apply it to the affected area, leave it for 20 minutes, then rinse it off with warm water. Do this once a day for a few days.
• Alternatively, mix ¼ teaspoon of nutmeg powder with enough milk to make a runny paste. Apply it to the acne-affected area, let it sit for 30 minutes, then wash off with lukewarm water. Do this once a day. 

6. Improves Digestion

Nutmeg is great for the digestive system. In addition to easing indigestion, nausea, vomiting, bloating, gas, and diarrhea, it can also help manage the symptoms of Crohn’s disease.

• When you’re suffering from digestive issues, you should simply add a pinch of nutmeg to your soups and stews. 

 

7. Prevents Tooth Decay and Cavities
Due to its antibacterial properties, nutmeg can effectively destroy harmful bacteria inside the mouth to help prevent cavities and tooth decay. Furthermore, it’s also effective at preventing and treating bad breath, which is usually caused by a buildup of bacteria in the mouth.
• Simply grate some nutmeg and mix it with some oregano oil. Brush your teeth with it a few times a week.
• To fight bad breath, put a few drops of nutmeg oil in a glass of lukewarm water, and use it as a mouthwash. 

8. Boosts Immunity
Nutmeg can enhance your immunity due to the presence of minerals and vitamins that contribute to its antioxidant action. Antioxidants help to protect your body from free-radical damage, which can otherwise have a negative impact on your immunity, making it hard for your body to fight off infections.
• Consume some nutmeg each day by adding it to your milk, tea, or soup. ​

9. Aids Detoxification

Proper detoxification is very important for good health. Nutmeg is very beneficial, as it aids detoxification and improves the function of your liver.

10. Improves Male Libido
Due to its vasodilating and smooth muscle-relaxing properties, the compound eugenol in nutmeg is responsible for its aphrodisiac effect. Plus, it has magnesium and potassium, the essential nutrients required in the production of sex hormones.

Nutmeg helps to cleanse the liver and kidneys of toxins, as well as strengthening their functions. Its high antioxidant content helps activate enzymes in the liver that help to remove toxic compounds. Furthermore, the magnesium in it is required for detoxifying cells.

Caution
• Do not consume too much nutmeg as it can be toxic in large doses – do not take more than ½ a teaspoon a day.
• Store this spice in an airtight container and away from moisture, heat, and direct sunlight to avoid loss of flavor. 

this is only for your information, kindly take the advice of your doctor for medicines, exercises and so on.                                                                                                             https://gscrochetdesigns.blogspot.com. one can see my crochet creations                                   https://gseasyrecipes.blogspot.com. feel free to view for easy, simple and healthy recipes                 https://kneereplacement-stickclub.blogspot.com. for info on knee replacement           

These 10 Herbs boosts one's memory

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whether it's to prevent or treat memory loss, these natural herbs have served as timeless aids. Let's take a look:

1. Gingko Biloba

This popular herbal supplement is well-known for its many therapeutic benefits, particularly, its power to enhance memory. Studies conducted on this herbal supplement have found gingko's potency in aiding memory and thinking among individuals with Alzheimer's or vascular dementia. Gingko is said to work by protecting the nerve cells damaged by these disorders to improve learning, daily activities, social behavior, as well as reduce feelings of depression. Further tests conducted on gingko have also found that it can improve blood circulation along the central nervous system, promoting brain development and functioning. But what makes gingko so potent? Gingko leaves contain flavonoids and terpenoids, both of which have antioxidants to combat free radicals that contribute to health disorders like Alzheimer's and dementia.

2. Ginseng

Studies have found ginseng to yield promising results when used as a form of treatment for memory impairment. In the studies conducted, mice given dosages of ginseng extracts showed remarkable improvements in water maze tasks. Ginseng was shown to activate neurotransmitter activities that promote memory enhancement.

3. Rosemary

Traditionally, this aromatic herb has long been used to improve memory. Like gingko, rosemary has been shown to contain antioxidants that neutralize free radicals. When used in aromatherapy, rosemary has also been found to reduce cortisol levels in the brain, thereby reducing anxiety. Furthermore, when combined with other essential oils, rosemary has been shown to alleviate stress and increase concentration and memory of graduate nursing students.

4. Sage

Studies have found that sage contains active ingredients that boost the chemicals that trigger transmission of messages within the brain. Scientists from the Universities of Newcastle and Northumbria also tested the herb on 44 people. Half the group were given sage, while the other half were given a placebo. Results showed that those who were given sage performed better in a word recall test.

5. Green Tea

Green tea is best known for its antioxidant properties. Scientific research conducted in March 2013, confirmed that green tea extracts help shield proteins and lipids (fat soluble vitamins: A, D, E and K) from age associated activities caused by oxidation. In the study, animals treated with green tea extracts showed better spatial learning abilities. Furthermore, studies suggest that the plant can protect the hippocampus (the part of the brain responsible for emotion, memory and the autonomic nervous system) from age-related decline.

6. Rhodiola Rosea

Rhodiola Rosea has long been used to treat various kinds of illnesses. But, rhodiola is best known for enhancing memory. In fact, it is considered to be one of the best herbs to do so. Studies have also discovered that rhodiola not only has the ability to improve one's focus and memory, it can also relieve depression. Furthermore, researchers believe that this herb contains adaptogenic qualities which stimulate the central nervous system of the body, resulting in enhanced memory and concentration. Another study also found that taking rhodiola regularly increases memorization abilities.

7. Bacopa

Bacopa has a long history. It was used in ayurveda (a 5000-year-old ancient system of natural healing) to enhance learning, concentration and memory. Numerous studies conducted on bacopa found it to be an effective herb in improving one's memory and mental function. In one study, conducted in Australia, 46 volunteers aging from 18 to 60 were divided into two groups. In one group, each volunteer was given 300mg of bacopa everyday. After 12 weeks, the subjects' verbal learning abilities, speed of information processing, and memory significantly improved.

8. Gotu Kola

Gotu Kola shows promising results in enhancing memory and improving brain function. In traditional Chinese and ayurvedic medicine, gotu kola has also been used in rejuvenating the mind and the body. In fact, it is considered to be an anti-aging herb. Studies have found that gotu kola contains certain substances that increase brain power and improves blood circulation to the brain, resulting in better memory, concentration, intelligence and attention span.

9. Periwinkle

This herb is best known for its antispasmodic, antibacterial, anti-cancer and sedative effects. It is also a great herb to use to enhance memory. The seeds and leaves in periwinkle contain a blood thinner that improves circulation of the blood to the brain, promoting better oxygen use. It also prevents any damages to the blood vessels, preventing dementia and senility. Furthermore, it encourages the brain to absorb more nutrients, significantly improving its functions. By increasing oxygen supply to the brain, cognitive and memory abilities are significantly enhanced.

10. Blueberries

Modern science has discovered that blueberries contain powerful compounds like flavanoids, believed to be effective in enhancing learning ability, cognitive functions, verbal comprehension, numerical ability, decision making, reasoning ability, and more importantly, memory. Eating foods rich in flavanoids regularly, helps in slowing down the decline in cognitive ability, offering protection against diseases like dementia, Parkinson's and Alzheimer's. Moreover, a study conducted at Harvard University found that eating blueberries helps in boosting brain power. It has also been found to stave off cognitive decline and prevent memory loss, that is normally associated with aging.