Have you noticed you can’t recall names/ numbers like you used to? Do you often feel the need to re-read something to completely understand it? If so, you are not alone.
This is not only a problem for aging people but is becoming an issue for all ages. Maybe it is the busy life we are leading, maybe it is past illnesses that haven’t been cleared from our system, or maybe it is a deficiency in our bodies. If so, there is help.
There is an amazing little water plant that has been used for centuries. Bacopa (Bacopa monnieri) is an herb with a rich history of use in Ayurveda, primarily as a nerve tonic and nootropic.
It has been used not only to help improve brain function and memory recall but also to help reduce stress, anxiety, ADHD, inflammation, blood pressure, Alzheimer’s, and dementia, and is safe for long-term use.
In addition to bacopa, several other natural nootropics including ginseng, green tea, and ginkgo biloba can help to support our brain health.
Most folks make tea from dried bacopa. To make tea, add one teaspoon of dried bacopa to one cup of boiled water and steep for about 10 minutes. Drink two to three cups daily.
Bacopa plays well with other plants, too. Think about the people you have in your life. Aren’t there a few of them that just make you feel better when you are around them, and raise your spirit? Herbs work the same way.
And, while we are talking about tea, here’s a brainboosting tea recipe.
BRAIN BOOSTING TEA
- 3 parts bacopa powder
- 3 parts lion’s mane powder
- 1.5 parts ginkgo powder
- 1.5 parts ashwagandha root powder
- 1 part turmeric powder
A little note on lion’s mane mushroom. With the cooler weather coming and farmer’s markets popping up all over, check one near you and see if someone is selling fresh lion’s mane. We like to take these mushrooms, slice them thinly, and sauté them in a bit of butter and fresh garlic. Then add those slices to your favorite pizza. Wow! Delicious and healthy.
Everything we need to keep us happy and healthy is right before us. Try combining two or three of your favorite herbs and see what results you get. People are better together, and so are herbs.
SW Herb Shop & Gathering Place is located at 148 N. Center St. in Mesa. Store hours are 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday through Friday, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Saturday, closed Sunday and Monday. Visit SWHerb.com or call (480) 694-9931. Madalyn Johnson can also be reached at (602) 920-8973.